How can you build your ESG network and find mentors?

Mentorship is driven by mentees. Don't expect your mentor to be doing the heavy lifting, you need to be clear on your expectations and do your homework before you go into a mentoring session.

As ESG is a very wide topic ranging from engineering to finance to compliance, it is important to determine how one likes to be associated with the topics and hence the network that one builds around it. Having come from a corporate finance background and pivoted from being in the hydrocarbon industry for the last 20 years, I had chosen to dwell into sustainability advisory as a topic as I believe I can contribute given my experience in corporate advisory and greenfield investment. Subsequently, I get to immerse myself into the crowd of advsiors where they also came from a diverse background e.g. shipping, consumer packaging, F&B etc. This allows us to learnt from one another.

As sustainability covers a broad range of topics and the content is often interlinked in complex ways, it makes sense to focus on specific content at the beginning. Breaking it down to individual goals can help to gain a better understanding of sustainability aspects in the overall context.

I think it is important to have some notion of where you would like to go and what you would like to achieve, but at the same time, I recommend that you don't take your conclusions too seriously. If you are looking for a mentor, it is precisely because you do not yet know yourself and the professional world you want to enter. So, yes, you can set some goals, but be aware that in 2 years it is very likely that they will have changed radically. Keep an open mind for learning and start acting instead of thinking, as quickly as possible. Learning from experience is the best way to find your way.

Define Your Goals: Clearly articulate your goals and objectives within the ESG space. Understanding your specific interests and areas of focus will guide your networking efforts.

Start your journey towards building an impactful ESG network by conducting thorough research. Explore diverse resources like industry associations, online forums, and specialized events. Dive into podcasts, blogs, and courses to stay updated on the latest trends. Identify platforms that resonate with your values and goals. By arming yourself with knowledge, you pave the way for meaningful connections and mentorship opportunities in the dynamic world of corporate sustainability.

ESG is a new acronym for the old challenges that the industry has been facing for decades and in my opinion ever second professional in sustainability industry (including me) would like to called as an ESG expert. However lets understand ESG is a complex blend of varied skillset which comes with experience in multiple areas of work. Every organization has a unique problem to solve while executing ESG basis their nature of work and best way to look at it is to group yourself with professionals in diversified expertise. If internally those experts are unavailable hire part time resources/ consultants who can bring in a innovative view to a unique problem.

There are more options than there ever was: - Linkedin: many ESG professionals use this platform to exchange and communicate. Look at groups, pages and collaborative articles like this one. - Green Communities: they take many shape and forms. From a local non profit to monthly meetup of ESG enthusiasts. A lot of industry associations now have a sustainability working group. - Whatsapp and Telgram groups: these have been trending can easily attain a few hundred people sharing their insights.

Being a follower doesn't add too much value to a relationship. Even if your point of view is not novel, it is important to get let other people know of your stance on a certain matter. This is because as a service providers it make sense for your clients / prospects to know how you feel about certain issues - issues that may have to resonate with their own or their companies' values. Research your opinion make sures that you are in the best position to contribute to a certain topic. Integrating certain thoughts with your own experience and sharing that allow your audience to derive value from your opinion.

After clarifying your goals, begin researching resources and platforms tailored to ESG professionals. Explore industry associations, online communities, events, podcasts, newsletters, blogs, and courses focused on ESG to stay informed about current trends, insights, and best practices. These platforms can serve as valuable sources for identifying potential contacts and mentors who align with your interests and values in the ESG field.

Building a network in the ESG world is getting easier and more difficult at the same time. While the number of opportunities (events, courses, communities, etc.) are increasing exponentially, experienced professionals in this industry want to see genuine interest in the topic. Recommend the following approach— 1. Identify the sector in which you want to learn about or apply ESG (eg: consumer goods, automotive, IT, etc.) 2. Find out what are the key ESG issues the sector faces and identify individuals in that sector working on sustainability 3. Write a respectful, concise message/email to them summarizing your high level-understanding of key issues and mention you’d like to learn more about how they implement ESG in their role.

I am a certified ACC coach and I am working in Sustainability and ESG. Connect me if you think this helps. Can approach me through Linked in.

The most important thing I have found useful so far is to engage actively with people on topics that interest you. Don't post once and then disappear for two weeks. This will not help you build a consistent voice. The second is to connect with like-minded individuals. Do not just send connect requests. Put in the effort to craft a small message about what interests you in their profile or why you would like to connect. It's the small things like these that will set you apart.

ESG is a new subject area that always requires a high degree of openness. Networking is therefore an essential part of building and validating your own expertise. Openness is a basic prerequisite, which is often practiced by all participants, so that networking is simplified at this point.

Don't be intimidated if you are a beginner. Some people think some experience is required but most communities are very welcoming to people who are just getting started and want to learn more about ESG and Sustainability. If you get rejected due to lack of experience, that community might not be worth joining after all.

Forge authentic connections by focusing on trust and rapport-building. Approach potential mentors with genuine curiosity and respect for their expertise. Engage in meaningful conversations, actively listening to their insights and experiences. Challenge their perspective. Offer assistance and support where possible, nurturing a mutually beneficial relationship. By fostering trust and rapport, you lay the groundwork for long-lasting mentorship that fosters growth and development in the ESG sphere.

Join ESG Forums: Participate in online forums and communities dedicated to ESG discussions. These platforms provide spaces for networking, learning, and connecting with potential mentors. Be Proactive: Take the initiative to organize meetings, attend events, and follow up with individuals you meet. Proactivity is key to building and sustaining professional relationships.

Build a small community or join a community and start to contribute actively and positively. Too many times, contributions on social media like Linkedin becomes a contest of idea i.e. whose idea is right and who is wrong. While there are topics that reside in the realm of white and black (e.g. flat earth), most opinion are subjective. Therefore, it is better to listen and learn to appreciate things from another perspective,. This open mindedness, especially in the developing genre of sustainability, is important to build trust.

After establishing contact with potential mentors, focus on building trust and rapport. Be prepared, respectful, and curious in your interactions, demonstrating genuine interest in their work and perspectives. Ask open-ended questions, actively listen, and share your own experiences and insights. Consider offering assistance with their projects or challenges or introducing them to relevant individuals in your network. Aim to create a mutually beneficial relationship that can develop and strengthen over time.

Building trust and rapport with your mentors is essential for fostering a successful mentorship relationship. Approach interactions with authenticity, openness, and respect. Actively listen to your mentor's insights, ask thoughtful questions, and be receptive to feedback. Share your own experiences, challenges, and aspirations transparently. Building mutual trust takes time, so invest in regular communication and demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow under their guidance. Establishing a strong foundation of trust and rapport lays the groundwork for a productive and supportive mentorship dynamic.

Important to maintain an nurture our network. This allows a more vibrant exchange of idea and also gives you the opportunity to form informal alliances where you cam reach out for sounding board (in case required in the future). Nurturing the network is a 2-way street, one just can't keep asking question without answering some.

Nurture your ESG network with care and diligence. Keep in touch with mentors and contacts, updating them regularly. Not just on your progress and your achievements but also on news you heard of that might be interesting for them. Share relevant resources and opportunities, demonstrating your commitment to mutual growth. Seek feedback and advice respectfully, acknowledging their time and boundaries. Cultivate a culture of appreciation and reciprocity within your network, fostering a supportive ecosystem that thrives on collaboration and shared learning.

Maintaining and nurturing your network in the ESG community requires ongoing engagement and relationship-building efforts. Stay connected with your mentors by scheduling regular check-ins or meetings to discuss your progress, seek advice, and share updates on your ESG-related endeavors. Actively participate in industry events, online forums, and networking opportunities to expand your network and stay informed about emerging trends and opportunities in ESG. Offer support and assistance to your connections whenever possible, demonstrating your commitment to fostering mutually beneficial relationships within the ESG ecosystem.

Building your ESG network and finding mentors is an ongoing process that requires continuous maintenance and nurturing. Stay in regular contact with your mentors and connections, updating them on your progress and achievements. Share relevant articles, resources, or opportunities, and invite them to events or webinars you're attending or hosting. Occasionally seek feedback, advice, or referrals, but always be respectful of their time and boundaries. Demonstrating appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity is essential for maintaining a strong and supportive network.

LinkedIn Outreach: Send personalized messages on LinkedIn expressing your interest in ESG and requesting informational interviews. Be concise, respectful, and articulate about what you hope to gain. Professional Development Programs: Explore mentorship or professional development programs offered by ESG organizations. These programs are designed to connect mentees with experienced professionals.

Embrace diversity and inclusivity as you expand your network. Explore various groups, events, and initiatives to broaden your horizons. Connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and sectors, embracing the richness of different perspectives. Actively seek out mentors who challenge and inspire you, driving innovation and progress in your sustainability journey. By expanding and diversifying your network, you unlock endless possibilities for learning, collaboration, and collective impact in the realm of corporate sustainability.

Understanding the value that diversity of perspective brings to your growth is important. Going beyond your bubble will help you exponentially in broadening your thought process. I highly recommend reaching out to a variety of professionals in the ESG space as you will always learn something new!

Diversity is enriching ! If you stay with a uniform group of people, you are likely to hear similar opinions over and over again. Whether it's different industries, background, gender or seniority, meeting people from all walks of life will enrich you.

Expanding and diversifying your network in the ESG field involves connecting with professionals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and perspectives. Seek out opportunities to engage with individuals who bring unique insights and experiences to the table, including sustainability practitioners, investors, policymakers, and community leaders. Attend interdisciplinary events, cross-industry forums, and networking mixers to broaden your exposure and establish connections outside your immediate sphere of influence. Embrace diversity in your network to enrich your understanding of ESG issues and amplify your impact through collaboration and collective action.

While upskilling through online courses is an efficient way to build expertise, if you are new to the ESG world, use the lack of deep expertise to forge connections with leaders in the field by asking thoughtful questions. LinkedIn, Medium, etc. are great places to get connected with the right individuals if you are curious enough!

More practical ideas : 1- Leveraging Online Platforms: Make use of professional networking sites like LinkedIn to connect with ESG professionals and join relevant groups. 2- Attending Industry Events: Conferences, webinars, and workshops are excellent places to meet potential mentors and peers. 3- Contributing to Discussions: Engage with online forums and publications related to sustainability to raise your profile. 4- Volunteering: Offer your skills to non-profits or industry associations to meet like-minded individuals. 5- Seeking Diverse Perspectives: Reach out to professionals with different backgrounds and experiences to broaden your understanding of ESG issues.

6- Formal Mentorship Programs: Look for structured mentorship opportunities offered by professional organizations. 7- Continuing Education: Enroll in courses or certifications related to ESG to expand your knowledge and network. 8- Peer Learning: Form or join study groups or peer circles focused on ESG topics.

Leverage your existing network: Ask colleagues, professors, or family members familiar with ESG if they know anyone willing to mentor you. Seek recommendations from members of your newly built network. Utilize online mentorship platforms: Mentorship programs or platforms focused on sustainability or related fields Some professional platforms like LinkedIn offer mentorship connections. Reach out to potential mentors directly: Identify experts in your chosen area of ESG and express your interest in receiving guidance. Tailor your message to highlight your career goals and specific areas where you seek mentorship.

I am not in the business of mentoring individual professionals (I work with large companies or providing training to groups of executives). But throughout my career I have had the opportunity to train and guide some professionals new to ESG or with some experience. I know it can be overwhelming at first. If you don't know where to start, you can write me a private message and tell me about yourself, and I will try to help you. ?? The path starts with a single step.