How to Discover That Perfect Mentor
Stan Tilton, MBA
Internationally Recognized Leadership Coach driven by a passion to help professions succeed! Leadership is not a Position; it is an Action! sm
A significant majority of successful professionals have benefited from having a mentor at some point in their career. Finding the right mentor is a valuable opportunity, but it's crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure that your potential mentor has a track record of accomplishments and proven successes in their own career. It is also important for the mentor to have once been in a similar position as you are now, possibly fortunate enough to have had their own mentor or employer retained coach, and to have achieved the career heights you aspire to reach. However, it's essential to keep in mind that, especially if you aim to develop strong leadership skills, your ideal mentor may not necessarily come from your field or industry. Instead, you should consider expanding your search beyond your technical domain and explore mentors from unrelated industries.
It's worth reiterating that great leadership skills are transferable across industries. Therefore, if your goal is to find the best possible mentor, don't restrict your search solely to your own industry or field. Regardless of where you find your mentor, they should command respect, possess high credibility and integrity. Your mentor must be someone that has the personality to be direct when communicating with you. The mentorship relationship should also involve a strong bond and chemistry between both parties, allowing for a productive partnership where you trust their guidance. Lastly, the mentor must be willing to invest the necessary time to advise you in navigating the potential career challenges you may encounter while pursuing your objectives, with their highest priority being your success in your chosen career path.
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In conclusion, finding the right mentor could potentially be the most critical decision you make throughout your lengthy career. To discover that perfect mentor, begin by networking with your colleagues and friends. Interview multiple potential mentors and continue the search until you find someone whose career advice you are willing to listen to and trust regarding your future. Keep in mind that the mentor you select must have a genuine passion to see you succeed, and don't be surprised if they come from a different industry.
If you find this information valuable, feel free to send to your colleagues, friends and other connections.?I welcome your feedback.?Please post your comments, give it a like or share (repost) on LinkedIn!
Chief Medical Officer at Gossamer Bio
1 年Thanks for posting this Stan ! Great advice in the post.
Global HR Leader - Strategic Business Partner
1 年Once again, wise words Stan. Grateful to have you as a friend and mentor for the past several years. Finding the right mentor is an art and a science. The chemistry needs to be there, where you can speak freely, listen soundly, and trust it is all with positive intent. I've found some mentors in the most unexpected places, first becoming professional friends, and then sharing my concerns and getting honest guidance and encouragement.
Manager, HRIS
1 年Great post! I had the best mentor, Stan Tilton. ??