Having a mentor can make a difference in every area of your life. This is true in business and beyond. So getting the right mentor and forming a relationship is paramount. However, you need to take the right approach. Here is what you should know:
Go Wide
At first, you might be thinking of a specific mentor or kind of mentor that you want to have. The reality is that if you start too specific off the bat, you could limit yourself as far as the kind of mentor you need. Therefore, it is better to go wide at first rather than restrict yourself. That way, all the options are open to you.
Narrow it Down
Once you have a general idea down, feel free to narrow your options so that your mentor is more particular in your mind. You might start to look at past events, industries, and hobbies you have been involved in. This can often begin to lead you down the right path.
Leverage Your Network
Your network is a way to get the most leverage out of your contact list. The people you know are more likely to get you in with people in higher positions just by being their friend. Don’t worry if you don’t know that many people in the industry that you are looking for a mentor in. You can still find them if you persist.
Ask Questions
Once you have found your mentor, you need to ask a lot of questions to keep the relationship healthy. The last thing you want to do is give off the impression that you are not interested in their opinion. Don’t challenge them every time, but be sure to drill down on why they give specific advice.
Offer Value
Nobody wants someone who is just a taker, especially a mentor. They want people in their lives who truly know how to give value to others. That way, the relationship is a two-way street. This means it is more likely to last longer than usual.
Having a mentor can help give your life a significant boost. However, it is not always easy. Be sure to follow the tips above. This will help ensure your path to success will be more attainable than ever before.
This blog was originally published at AndyBritnell.net
