What are the best ways to find a mentor in facilitation from a different industry?

1 Identify your goals

Before you start looking for a mentor, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and learn from the mentoring process. Think about your current facilitation skills, strengths, and weaknesses, and identify the areas that you want to improve or explore. Also, think about the type of industry that you are curious about and how it relates to your own. For example, if you are a facilitator in the education sector, you might want to learn from a facilitator in the health or technology sector. Having specific and realistic goals will help you narrow down your search and communicate your expectations to potential mentors.

3 Reach out and connect

After you have made a list of potential mentors, you need to reach out and connect with them. You can send them a polite and professional email or message, introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in learning from them. You should also briefly mention your goals, background, and experience, and how you think they can help you. You can also ask them if they are available and willing to mentor you, and what their expectations and preferences are. Be respectful, humble, and enthusiastic, and avoid being too pushy or demanding. Remember that mentoring is a voluntary and mutual relationship, so you need to show that you value their time and expertise.

4 Establish the relationship

If you get a positive response from a potential mentor, you should follow up and establish the relationship. You can arrange a meeting or a call to get to know each other better, and to discuss the details and logistics of the mentoring process. You should agree on the frequency, duration, mode, and agenda of your sessions, as well as the roles, responsibilities, and boundaries of each party. You should also set some specific and measurable objectives and milestones that you want to achieve together, and how you will track and evaluate your progress. You should also exchange feedback, expectations, and suggestions regularly, and be open and honest with each other.

5 Learn and apply

The most important part of the mentoring process is to learn and apply what you gain from your mentor. You should be proactive, curious, and attentive during your sessions, and ask relevant and meaningful questions. You should also take notes, reflect, and practice what you learn, and share your results and challenges with your mentor. You should also seek and accept constructive feedback, and be willing to make adjustments and improvements. You should also acknowledge and appreciate your mentor's contributions, and celebrate your achievements together. By learning and applying what you gain from your mentor, you will be able to enhance your facilitation skills and expand your horizons.