How can you find a mentor in Team Leadership when you are new to the industry?

1 Identify your goals

Before you look for a mentor, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve as a team leader and what kind of mentorship you are looking for. Do you want to improve your communication, delegation, or conflict resolution skills? Do you want to learn more about the industry, the culture, or the best practices of your organization? Do you want to have a formal or informal relationship with your mentor? Having specific and realistic goals will help you narrow down your options and find a mentor who can match your needs and expectations.

2 Network and ask around

One of the best ways to find a mentor is to network and ask around in your industry and organization. You can attend events, join online communities, or participate in projects that allow you to meet and interact with potential mentors. You can also ask your colleagues, managers, or HR for recommendations or introductions. When you network and ask around, be respectful, curious, and genuine. Show interest in the other person's work, background, and achievements. Don't be afraid to ask for advice or feedback, but don't be pushy or demanding either.

3 Evaluate and approach

Once you have identified some potential mentors, you need to evaluate and approach them carefully. You can do some research on their profile, reputation, and style of leadership. You can also look for testimonials, reviews, or endorsements from their previous or current mentees. You want to find a mentor who has the skills, experience, and personality that suit you and your goals. When you approach a potential mentor, be polite, professional, and concise. Explain why you are interested in their mentorship, what you hope to learn from them, and how you can contribute to the relationship. Be flexible and open to their suggestions and preferences.

4 Establish and maintain

If you find a mentor who agrees to mentor you, you need to establish and maintain a good relationship with them. You can start by setting some ground rules, expectations, and boundaries for your mentorship. How often will you meet, communicate, or check-in? How will you measure your progress and give feedback? How will you handle any challenges or conflicts? Having a clear and mutual agreement will help you build trust and respect with your mentor. You also need to maintain your relationship by being proactive, responsive, and respectful. You can prepare for your sessions, follow up on your action items, and show appreciation for your mentor's time and effort. You can also seek and offer feedback, share your challenges and successes, and celebrate your achievements.

Finding a mentor in team leadership when you are new to the industry can be challenging, but not impossible. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a mentor who can help you grow as a leader and as a professional.

5 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?