You’re interested in entrepreneurship. How can you find a mentor who will take you under their wing?

In my experience it is best to understand WHY you are starting the business. With the rise of social media there are no shortages of ideas ?? the problem is understanding what’s the best option for you. If you want to start a business you need to make sure the goals you set directly correlate to what you are trying to accomplish in your business. You should have Sales Goals, marketing goals, and KPI goals. Use platforms to discover what people need or are looking for. You’d be surprised how many people will tell you what they want.

It is important to identify both short term and long term goals. A clear understanding of these goals can help us identify the areas where we need guidance. Remember, the mentor is here to share their experience and guidance with us. We still need to engage in extensive reading, research, and learning in the areas where we wish to excel.

How to start? Most leaders I know get caught up in the activity before they take time to figure out what they want the outcome to be. Reflect. What do you want out of mentoring? What gaps are you looking to address? What do you need from a mentor? Be clear and you have increased your chances for a fab fit!

First, select individuals who are active in the market you intend to enter. Then, seek to understand what their biggest gaps are and research which mentors possess those talents. Look into their success stories and create a shortlist. Now, to be under their wings, you either need to pay a hefty price or have a highly attractive business value proposition, which necessarily could be in the form of equity, but rather a way to grow even further, a complementary competence, in short, something of great value to them.

Having defined your goals, interests and criteria, the media that can help get a good mentor include online platforms, industry events, professional associations, alumni networks, or personal contacts. Find qualities relevant to your goals - knowledgeable, relevant skill, willingness to help , available. Note that you earn mentors so respect them. Be teachable, coachable and create bonds that are productive.

Navigating mentorship platforms can feel like sifting through a lot of fluff. To find a genuine mentor, focus on authenticity and substance. Spot the achievers who resonate with you. It's their journey, not just the success, that should inspire you. Social media often shows only the highlight reel. Seek mentors who share the full story, including the setbacks. Do your research. Dive into their interviews and talks to grasp their real story and values. When reaching out, authenticity is key. Share why their journey specifically speaks to you. Try to connect beyond digital platforms. Real, meaningful interactions often happen face-to-face.

Research and planning wouldn't materialize if we didn't get into the game.? An eagle will never take in a chick to be their successor or protege. So being able to impress your intended mentor is a very important step. Be observant, quick in making important decisions, and make that one impression that your intended mentor will never forget. Ask yourself: Will you take yourself in as the Mantee if you present yourself in the current state? =)

Though not the preferred approach we often judge a book by its cover. So make sure you leave a good impression at the start because that matters a lot as people are overwhelmed.

Above all else, show a genuine interest in learning. The mentor would be happy to train you and instill confidence in you if you show the curiosity to figure things out. But don't over-ask too often!

Show your interest of learning, attend all entrepreneurship seminars, workshops and conferences to build strong relations with stake holders and to find your best mentor

Focus on aligning values and personalities. It's not always a one-for-one match with the exact business industry or function. Some of my best lessons have come from outside my own industry and with people I connected with on a personal level that share the same values and beliefs.

To find the right mentor for you, first you need to understand two things. (1) who you are today (2) who you are becoming Who you are today includes all the stories you are telling yourself that are keeping you stuck - a coach can help you find clarity of self. Who you are becoming, you get to choose that part, but you do have to choose. Clear your mind, take a pen and blank sheet of paper. Imagine your ideal future self. You can describe yourself in any way you choose to. Which three words do you use to describe your ideal future self? I am… I am… I am… In the present tense. When you know who you are becoming, you can identify your perfect mentor to help you become. This part has to come first though. It has to begin with you.