What do you do if you want to enhance your relationship building skills through mentorship or guidance?

1 Find a potential mentor or guide

The first step is to identify someone who can offer you valuable mentorship or guidance in relationship building. This could be someone in your current or previous workplace, your industry, your network, or your community. You can also look for online platforms or programs that match mentors and mentees based on their interests and goals. When choosing a potential mentor or guide, consider their level of experience, their reputation, their availability, and their compatibility with your personality and learning style.

2 Approach them with respect and curiosity

The next step is to reach out to the person you have selected and ask them if they are willing and able to provide you with mentorship or guidance. You can send them an email, a message, or a phone call, depending on the level of familiarity and formality. In your initial contact, you should introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in learning from them, and express your appreciation for their time and expertise. You should also be clear about what kind of mentorship or guidance you are looking for, whether it is a one-time conversation, a regular check-in, or a long-term partnership.

3 Set goals and expectations for the relationship

The third step is to establish the goals and expectations for the mentorship or guidance relationship, together with your mentor or guide. You should discuss what you want to achieve, how you want to measure your progress, and what kind of support you need. You should also agree on the frequency, duration, and format of your interactions, as well as the boundaries and expectations for communication, feedback, and confidentiality. You should also set a timeline for reviewing and adjusting the relationship as needed.

4 Prepare for each interaction

The fourth step is to prepare for each interaction with your mentor or guide, whether it is a meeting, a call, or an email. You should do some research on the topic or issue you want to discuss, prepare some questions or challenges you want to address, and have some examples or stories to share. You should also be ready to listen actively, ask for clarification, and take notes. You should also be respectful of your mentor's or guide's time and schedule, and confirm or remind them of the interaction beforehand.

6 Maintain and nurture the connection

The sixth and final step is to maintain and nurture the connection with your mentor or guide, beyond the formal or structured interactions. You should keep in touch with them regularly, share your updates and successes, and ask for their opinions or insights on relevant topics or issues. You should also look for opportunities to reciprocate their value, such as offering your help, introducing them to your contacts, or endorsing their skills. You should also celebrate and acknowledge their milestones and accomplishments, and express your gratitude and appreciation for their mentorship or guidance.