WHY A CAREER MENTOR COULD BE A GAMECHANGER FOR YOUR CAREER

Have you ever felt like you could do with some guidance with respect to your progress, goals, and career in general? Have there been times when you wished there was someone you could turn to who could give you the advice you really needed; someone in the same field as you who has probably been through your confounding situations??

If your answer is a resounding YES, then what you need is a career mentor.

Who is a career mentor, you ask?

A career mentor is someone who consents to sharing their knowledge and expertise with you in a bid to help advance your career in a positive direction. They not only act as guides in the business but also advise you on how you can be successful in the same.

Does it feel strange to ask for help?

The most common thought process is to shy away from displaying vulnerability especially where career is concerned. While it is definitely challenging, the main premise behind openly seeking help is the assurance that someone somewhere will have something to contribute towards your professional development. Not surprisingly, it is random strangers who often offer help to those seeking it.

So how can a career mentor help you?

They can act as your guide in situations and where important decisions are concerned. No, they will not be making any decisions on your behalf but will certainly guide you towards making an informed choice.

In the same line as above, they can help provide you with relevant information, insights, and data to make your awareness more in-depth.

An important role played by a career mentor is that of an advocate towards you and the progress of your career by recommending you to key stakeholders.

Over and above all these factors, mentors provide you with a safe space to display your vulnerabilities without shame or judgement. The price of having someone understand and guide you in your preferred field of business is immeasurable.

How can you find a good mentor?

Research: The more you’re aware of the stakeholders in your field of work, the wider a net you can cast when in search of a mentor. Understand what you’re looking for in a mentor and narrow down a list of people you find worthy, admirable, and compatible enough to approach.

Communication: Once you’ve got a list in place after your research, take the time to reach out to them. Send out feeler emails to them and wait for a response. Some may get back to you, while some won’t.?

Professionalism: Be kind and courteous in your introduction emails. Be patient where responses are concerned. Have your thoughts clearly communicated while also mentioning why you’d like a mentor and what you’d need their advocacy for.

Long-term relationships: Seek out contacts you look up to for their professional prowess irrespective of whether they belong to the same industry as you or not. The bonus would be to engage with people who are stalwarts in your line of business to get as much relevant information and guidance as possible. Not only does it help you cast a wide net but also helps you build key relationships that could facilitate the growth you’ve been wanting to achieve for yourself. In order to achieve this, you need to invest time in getting to know who suits your personality type best.?

In short, don’t hesitate to put yourself out there and ask for help. It may arrive sooner than later or may take more time than you planned. Keep in mind that it may also come from multiple sources and so being approachable and consistent is key in achieving the visibility one needs in order to be seen and/or considered.?

If this aligns with your vision, we encourage you to contact us at [email protected] to help find what you’re looking for.