Whether you are a student, entrepreneur or just a career person, everyone at some point will need the help of someone who has gone through a similar path that they are going through.
Perhaps you may be stuck in a career rut and would need some help to get out of it and rebuild your momentum, or you are wondering if you should get a corporate job just to become an entrepreneur. It could be that your start-up is doing well and then you are worried about the long term effect it will make on your corporate job.No matter the situation, everyone at some point in life would need advice from those who have gone ahead. Here are few tips to help you get a mentor.
- Have the Guts to ask
You have to speak up. Everyone has to understand that the worse response given to an answer is a NO and nothing else. Knowing this will help build your confidence level and help you understand that no matter what, you would have to take the bold step. Learn to ask for help and state that you need a mentor.
- Take the time to set the right context
When you are about to ask for someone’s time as a mentor, then you should ensure that you set up a quality call or meeting. Look for a quiet and a noiseless place to set up the call. It would be embarrassing to set up a call or meeting with your mentor in a rowdy environment
- Do your homework first
Find out more about your mentor. Check his accomplishment, know his titles and discover the part of his career that inspires you the most. With your background knowledge, you can get the best help from him. It only shows responsibility on your side, if you know so much about your mentor; it will create a good discussion base for you and help the whole mentoring process
- Ask the right questions
Nothing can end a mentor relationship than setting forth the wrong question. At first, it is important that all your questions remain professional. Do not go to his private life except he brings it up. And if he does, apply courtesy in discussing anything around that angle.
- Give more than you take
It is essential that you look for ways you can help your mentor. No man is an island; hence do not be surprised that your mentor would need your help too. If he only offers you advice and you don’t give anything in return, it would soon turn to a parasitic relationship. Ensure that you look out for ways you can help. With this mindset, you would become useful to your mentor. You could also consider sending a card to him appreciating his help.
