The Secret To Getting Ahead? Listen To A Mentor—Then Be One
While it may be easy to recognize the word “mentoring,” sometimes it can be challenging to know where to find one, especially when you’re starting out in your career. Early on in my journey to becoming a CEO, I had several mentors step in and give me personalized advice. They came into my life as I started new roles, and through them, I learned important lessons regarding time and team management. I didn’t even realize that I had mentors until I really started to advance in my career.
While I was fortunate, I always encourage others to be proactive. Don’t wait to stumble into a mentor. The best way to learn and build your career begins with identifying mentors and reaching out to them. Later, when you’ve reached a level of success, you can share your knowledge with others looking to learn.
Start With Three
You can begin by looking for several key figures in different industries. You might choose three that you admire and have an impressive track record. Looking on LinkedIn might be a great way to start your search. Reach out to CEOs or key executives and mention how you know about them. Perhaps you’ve read about them in the press or noticed a recent award they received.
You can then ask if they are available for a mini mentoring session, such as a 30-minute Zoom meeting. You might request that they share a condensed version of the core basics that helped them to be so successful. If they’re busy, you can reach out to others. Ideally, you’ll find a mentor in three different industries.
Prepare for the Conversation
Remember that mentors are busy people. Before you get on a call with them, research what they have done in their career. Come prepared with an agenda of what you’d like to learn. Ask about their experiences and what helped them get different roles.
After your first session, you might find they are willing to connect online briefly once a month. You could even suggest meeting in person once a quarter. Sometimes experienced mentors are willing to be your helpline—someone you can call when you're stuck or need guidance fast.
Pay attention to what your mentors say and write down their advice. You’ll be able to keep track of what you’ve learned. You can refer to this even as you move up in your own career.
Reaching Out to Retirees
As you develop relationships with mentors, don’t overlook opportunities to connect with those who have recently retired. They might be perfect as your fourth bonus mentor. These people have fascinating stories and often have the time and willingness to share their wisdom.
Giving Back to Others
I recently went to a new dentist. While we were chatting, I learned her nephew was finishing law school in my area. She mentioned she was so proud of him and that he was looking to build his network.
Now, I didn’t know the dentist. I’d never met her nephew. But I believe we all have a responsibility to give back. So I offered to connect him with several incredible lawyers, including my husband, who could spend a little time with him to answer questions and offer advice.
Within days, I had spoken with her nephew and introduced him to these individuals. Each of the lawyers I asked showed up and talked to him. A few days later, the dentist’s nephew wrote me a note, thanking me profusely and asking what he could do in return.
I told him this: “One day, when you’ve built your career and someone else needs help finding their start, be the person who says ‘yes.’ That’s the best gift you can give me. Pass the baton.”
As you start your career, seek out mentors and initiate conversations. Ask for their time and look to learn from them. And when the time comes, be the one who’s ready to give back. You’ll be able to celebrate the successes together in the best way.
