How can you develop project management skills with a mentor?

1 Finding a mentor

The first step to developing your project management skills with a mentor is to find someone who is willing and able to guide you. You can start by looking within your own network of contacts, such as colleagues, friends, or members of your community. You can also reach out to other organizations or groups that share your goals or interests, and ask if they have any mentors or programs available. Alternatively, you can use online platforms or forums that connect mentors and mentees, such as MentorNet or Idealist. When looking for a mentor, be clear about your expectations, goals, and availability, and be respectful of their time and expertise.

2 Choosing a mentor

Once you have identified some potential mentors, you need to choose one that matches your needs and preferences. You should look for a mentor who has relevant project management skills and experience in your field or sector, who can offer constructive feedback and advice, and who has a compatible personality and communication style. You should also consider the diversity and inclusion aspects of your mentorship, and seek a mentor who can offer different perspectives and insights that can enrich your learning and growth. You should avoid choosing a mentor who is too busy, too distant, or too similar to you.

4 Learning from a mentor

The main purpose of having a mentor is to learn from their project management skills and experience, and apply them to your own projects and initiatives. You should use your mentor as a resource and a sounding board, and ask them for tips, best practices, examples, or recommendations that can help you improve your project management skills. You should also observe how your mentor handles different situations and challenges, and learn from their successes and failures. You should also seek feedback from your mentor on your project management performance, and use it to identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

5 Developing a mentor

While your mentor is there to help you develop your project management skills, you can also help them develop their own skills and abilities. You can do this by providing your mentor with new perspectives, insights, or information that can broaden their knowledge and understanding. You can also challenge your mentor with thoughtful questions, comments, or suggestions that can stimulate their thinking and creativity. You can also appreciate and acknowledge your mentor's efforts and contributions, and express your gratitude and recognition. By doing this, you can create a reciprocal and rewarding mentorship that benefits both parties.

6 Evaluating a mentorship

The final step to developing your project management skills with a mentor is to evaluate your mentorship and its outcomes. You should review your progress and achievements, and compare them with your initial goals and expectations. You should also reflect on your learning and growth, and identify the key skills and lessons that you have gained from your mentor. You should also assess your relationship with your mentor, and determine if it is still effective and satisfying. You should also provide feedback to your mentor, and thank them for their support and guidance. You should also decide if you want to continue, end, or change your mentorship, and communicate your decision to your mentor.

7 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?