How to Find the Right Mentor

I recently wrote about mentoring in business, and reasons why you might want to start such a relationship. If you’re all-in on the idea and eager to get started, your next question will naturally be about how to get a mentor. This is, arguably, the most important part of the whole process because the right person can steer you to greatness while engaging with the wrong one can waste your time or even steer you off course. Here are my best tips for getting the “who” in your mentoring relationship right. 

• Personal Recommendations 

It’s well documented that people trust product and brand referrals from family and friends more than they trust ads or other information sources – and for good reason. They trust the people who are making the recommendation, so their opinion carries a lot of weight. Similarly, people you know and trust are a perfect place to start finding a mentor. 

Begin by writing down all the qualities of a mentor that you’re hoping to find in someone, and be specific. If you tend to be a visionary who sees the finish line but has no idea how to get there, you’d probably benefit most from a mentor who is meticulous and action-oriented. Or if your team members have all been yes-men and yes-women, you may really need some candid feedback. In this case, you’ll want someone who is honest even when it’s uncomfortable. 

In addition, think about your company’s industry and your goals. Who has already excelled in that industry, and/or achieved those goals? Once you have an idea of the type of person you want to have as a mentor, talk to your peers, family members and friends. Ask if they know anyone in the type of role or company you’re envisioning, or if they have any connections with the personality traits you have in mind. 

If you don’t end up finding someone this way, take your search to LinkedIn and try searching for similar profiles there. One note: It’s better to go through someone you know because there are a lot of intangibles you can’t glean about someone online. But, LinkedIn is a good backup if your network doesn’t come through with anyone who is a fit.  

• Relevant Associations

Another great way to meet and eventually form a mentorship with someone is by joining relevant associations. I’ve been involved with EO, the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, for many years and it’s opened doors for me to forge many valuable connections. This is a great one for any business owner, but there are also industry specific associations for nearly any industry under the sun. If you’re a public relations freelancer who wants to grow your own agency, for example, you could link up with PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) and meet other professionals who have already taken that very path. 

Finally, don’t lose heart if you don’t find the right mentor right away. It’s important that it’s a good fit for both of you, and the process of figuring that out can take time. In the meantime, keep working to identify your goals and come up with an elevator pitch you can use when you do meet a potential mentor. You know what they say; “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Be ready, be on the lookout and be open for the right mentor to come into your life when they’re supposed to. 

Any questions? I invite you to reach out to me directly, and I’m happy to make some recommendations.