A GUIDE TO GROWING YOUR CAREER: FINDING THE RIGHT MENTOR
Who do you admire? Whose career, leadership, or perspective inspires you? If someone immediately comes to mind, congratulations—you might already have the perfect mentor in waiting.
The right advisor can make all the difference in your career growth and personal development. A person who can offer guidance, share hard-earned wisdom, and help you navigate challenges you didn’t even know were coming. (And here’s the best part–you’ll likely have multiple mentors throughout your life.)
Mentors Change as You Do
Early on, my mentors were family members, teachers, and coaches. In college, my RA unknowingly became one, helping me in ways I never expected. She encouraged me to pursue Human Resources, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. That’s the thing about mentorship—sometimes, you don’t even realize it’s happening in the moment.
Different Mentors for Different Needs
Not all mentors serve the same purpose. Before seeking one out, consider what kind of guidance you need:
Someone in your industry to help you grow in your field?
A leader with broad professional experience to shape your overall career?
A mentor focused on leadership, decision-making, or confidence-building?
A peer at a similar stage who can offer fresh insights and shared experiences?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s a good thing. You’re not limited to just one mentor—your needs will evolve, and so will the people who guide you.
How to Find (and Approach) a Mentor
Before reaching out, take a moment to reflect. What do you want to achieve? What skills do you want to develop? A little clarity goes a long way.
When it’s time to connect, keep these things in mind:
Be thoughtful: Personalize your message and be clear about why you’re reaching out.
Show respect: Acknowledge that their time is valuable and express gratitude.
Keep it simple: Even a few hours a month can make a huge difference.
Mentorship Matters
Finding the right mentor takes time, but once you do, it can be one of the most rewarding professional relationships you’ll ever have. So, take the leap—your future self will thank you. Good luck!