What are the most effective ways to approach someone you admire for career advice?

First is to just muster up the courage to reach out. Take that first step. People you admire are human beings , like the rest of us. You may be surprised that, very often, people do get back. If they don't respond, don't get disheartened , at least you have moved the needle in taking that first step. Second is to prepare and rehearse - Try to have some clarity on what you want to talk and any specific guidance you are seeking. Most importantly be respectful of their time.

Je pense que la première chose à faire est de rester soi-même, ne pas chercher à vous travestir en quelqu'un d'autre que vous même. Ensuite, si vous voulez faire bonne impression et avoir des éléments pour rebondir dans la conversation, il est toujours bon d'avoir une idée sur la personne qui se trouvera en face de vous et notamment sur son parcours professionnel (via linkedin par exemple). Enfin, qu'attendez vous de cet échange? En l'ayant bien en tête vous serez plus pertinent dans votre approche et dans vos questions :)

I'm often asked for advice on matters I have written about, sometimes extensively. Before someone approaches me for advice or mentoring, I expect them to read my profile and articles closely and be familiar with recent posts.

Uma das coisas mais interessantes que costuma acontecer para mim é receber abordagens e perguntas sobre minha vida profissional. Me encanta saber que posso ajudar a alguém transmitindo alguma experiência e contando minhas histórias. Mas saber algo de antem?o sobre a pessoa que você quer abordar é fundamental . Muita gente aborda a outras pessoas sem fazer ideia de quem aquela pessoa realmente é , o que já fez e quais s?o seus interesses . Isso leva a situa??es constrangedoras! Pesquise ! Você só vai ter vantagens com isso.

De lo que más se aprende, es de los fracasos. Y cuando he tenido la oportunidad de conversar o asistir a alguna charla o ponencia de profesionales a los que admiraba o he llegado a admirar, suelen, como mínimo, nombrar sus fracasos. Cuando uno ya está curtido y se siente con seguridad dentro del mundo laboral, aprende que no hay motivo para sentir aversión por los errores. Al revés. Quizás sea un poco brusco preguntar de primeras por los fracasos, pero si quieres lograr una conversación interesante para ambas partes, creo que es de los temas que más pueden aportar a cualquiera a muchos niveles.

N?o há maneira melhor de puxar papo com alguém , independente de quem seja , do que puxando papo ! Um olá educado e sincero , explicando o que você gostaria de conversar .

A great way of reaching out to someone is by authentically giving them a compliment or feedback, for example on a recent article, book, podcast, or interview. This shows that you have done your homework and you pay attention to their work. It also shows your willingness to dive deeper and share your thoughts with them as a way to support their work. Showing that you have made this investment will make them more likely to be open to a connection and to help you out with your goals.

Approaching someone for career advice can be nerve-wracking. Research their background and craft a clear message showing your admiration. Be specific in outlining the areas where you seek guidance. Remember to express gratitude and remain open to feedback. Basic Example: Hello [Name], I admire your work in [field]. As someone aspiring to pursue a career in this field, I would appreciate any guidance you could offer. Can we chat over a call or meet in person? Thank you for your time.

Prepare for the Conversation: Research Thoroughly Investigate the person's professional background, achievements, and key projects. This shows genuine interest and respect for their time, enabling you to ask informed and specific questions that demonstrate you value their insights. Define Your Goals Clearly articulate your career goals, current position, aspirations, and challenges. This helps frame your questions effectively, making the conversation focused and productive, and shows you seek targeted advice. Prepare Thoughtful Questions Develop open-ended questions that invite detailed responses and deep insights. This preparation demonstrates seriousness about leveraging their advice for your professional growth.

Don't be afraid to do this outreach! Sometimes people feel awkward about this process or feel like they are inconveniencing the person they are approaching for advice, but in my experience, it is a compliment to have someone reach out to you and ask for advice or want to hear more about your career journey. People tend to love to talk about themselves and help others that ask for it.

I remember reaching out to someone who was in a different function but who understood and navigated the culture of the organisation well. He was only too pleased to help. It may not be obvious but people often like to help, and he’s asked! When I’m working with clients we often discuss who are your role models, and why and see if they can be approached. Introduce yourself, and why you admire them. Then be specific on the topic and type of advice you would like. Remember to respect their time, demands and schedule, and with around them, remember you are asking for their time so be understanding, patient and respectful.

Be brave, and keep it simple. And from my own experiences make sure to take notes. Mentors in my life, have had a huge impact.

Do your research, and then, JUST ASK. We often find ourselves overthinking, trying to decipher every detail before reaching out. Doubts can easily overshadow our initial intention to connect. The truth is, most experts in their respective fields are more than willing to assist those who are just starting out. If not, remember that there are countless other individuals you can approach and ask for guidance.

Just ask but don't take it personally if they don't have time! Respect their time and availability - and be clear about what specific problem you are looking for help with !