You're considering a career in Corporate Real Estate. How can a mentor help you achieve your goals?

1 What is a mentor?

A mentor is someone who has more knowledge, skills, or expertise in a certain field or industry than you and who is willing to share their wisdom and advice with you. A mentor can help you with various aspects of your career development, such as setting goals, identifying opportunities, overcoming challenges, expanding your network, and improving your performance. A mentor can also provide you with feedback, encouragement, and support to help you grow professionally and personally.

2 Why do you need a mentor in CRE?

CRE is a complex and dynamic field that involves managing the real estate assets and portfolios of corporations, either as an internal or external service provider. CRE professionals need to have a broad range of skills, such as financial analysis, market research, contract negotiation, project management, and communication. They also need to keep up with the trends and changes in the real estate market, the economy, and the business environment. A mentor can help you navigate the challenges and opportunities in CRE by sharing their knowledge, experience, and best practices. A mentor can also help you develop the skills and competencies that are required for success in CRE and that align with your career goals.

3 How to find a mentor in CRE?

Finding a mentor in CRE can be simpler than you may think, as there are many ways to connect with potential mentors. For instance, your current or previous employer may be able to provide a mentor or suggest someone who can. You can also reach out to your professional network, such as former classmates, coworkers, clients, or vendors. Additionally, you can join a professional association or organization that represents CRE or a specific sector or function within CRE, and participate in their mentoring programs. Lastly, you can use online platforms to follow and engage with CRE experts and influencers who can offer advice. Joining online communities and forums that are focused on CRE topics and issues is another great way to find mentors who share your interests and goals.

4 How to choose a mentor in CRE?

Choosing a mentor in CRE is not a one-size-fits-all process, as different mentors can offer various benefits and perspectives. When selecting a mentor, you should consider your career goals, learning style, personality, and values. Look for a mentor with the skills, experience, or achievements you aspire to have or who works in the role, sector, or organization that you want to work in. Make sure their teaching and communication style is compatible with yours and that they can provide constructive feedback and resources that fit your learning objectives and challenges. Additionally, look for a mentor who has a similar or complementary personality and values with you and who can establish a rapport and trust with you. They should also be able to respect your opinions, interests, and boundaries while supporting your personal and professional growth.

5 How to make the most of your mentoring relationship in CRE?

Making the most of your mentoring relationship in CRE requires commitment, communication, and collaboration from both you and your mentor. To optimize your experience, it is important to set clear and realistic goals with your mentor which should be reviewed and adjusted regularly to reflect any changing needs. Additionally, expectations and boundaries should be established regarding frequency, duration, and format of meetings and interactions. Proactivity and open-mindedness are also key for success in this relationship; take initiative for your own learning and development while also being open to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities that your mentor can provide. Lastly, show gratitude for the value that your mentor offers you while also offering value back by sharing insights, perspectives, and experiences.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?