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How do I find a mentor and why is it important to have one?

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Paul’s Answer

When I reflect back on my life, I have discovered that the people who stand out are the ones who challenged me with words and inspired me with their actions. They taught me, and they showed me, and they lived by the philosophy they shared.

Many people might look at mentoring as something that might be done in athletics or at the local school. Those types of mentoring are very important, but there are many different forms that mentoring can take.

Mentoring can be defined as any action that inspires another. Every time we watch someone and make a mental note of what they are doing, in regards to their character or conduct, we are being mentored.

When you greet a person in the hallway with a hello, or a smile, or give a person a compliment, someone might be watching you.

Mentoring is about the choices that we make in life, and the way that be observe the world and the decisions that we make regarding how we act in it. Mentoring can happen at any time. It is something that we receive and something that we give.

Where are mentors found? Well, mentors are all around us. They are everywhere that we look. Anytime there is a sharing of knowledge or a teaching of experience, there is a mentor.

There are a number of different kinds of mentors we can seek out, both in our personal and professional lives. A mentor is an individual whose principles and values have dictated their decisions in life. They can teach us about effective living, humility, contentment, interactions with family and friends, and keep our priorities straight in a world that often threatens to corrupt them.

They can really be anyone. They can be a parent, they can be a school teacher, coach, or a person from history. They can be either living or deceased, but they all have one thing in common. They are good leaders. My mentors are Ara Parseghian and Mike Krzyzewski. I have learned and been mentored by their amazing leadership, wisdom, and the examples they set for others who have followed them. My first mentors were my parents. Their lives have been an example in industriousness and humility, qualities which I believe had a significant impact on my life.

So mentors are literally everywhere we look, and you can find one just about anywhere. My parents used to always say, that everything that you know today, you have learned from someone else. Life is a learning opportunity, and those lessons are being taught all around us by mentors.
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Diane’s Answer

First, know what you are looking for in a mentor and have a goal for your mentorship. What are you looking to gain by having a mentor? Once you have established that reach out to your existing network (family, friends, business partners, clubs you are a member in). There are mentorship platforms you can join to assist you in finding a mentor. Keep you eye/ears open an volunteer events, networking events, social gatherings for possible mentor candidates.
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EZINNA EDGE’s Answer

Oh my! What an mazing question needed in a time like this. First up, who is a mentor? A mentor is someone that guides, teaches and advises a less experienced or younger individual.
Finding a mentor becomes very easy by identifying: a) if you need one.
b) on what area(s) you need a mentoring. c) Identify people within your vicinity or reach that have such qualifications.
d) Reach out to them. This can be done through calls or by setting up a meeting with them and requesting that they mentor you.

The importance of having a mentor are:
a) A mentor supports your growth.
b) A mentor guides you by giving your constructive feedbacks.
c) A mentor is always available for you to draw from their vast knowledge and experiences.
d) A mentor helps you set realistic goals and helps you achieve them too.
e) A mentor eggs you on even when nobody else does.
f) A mentor believes in you even when you don't believe in yourself.

Goodluck on your quest and may you find a wonderful mentor.
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Chirayu’s Answer

It is important to have a mentor as he or she can provide you with knowledge, expertise and share what skills they possess with their field. A mentor can guide you in the right path based on what your career intentions are, what you want to study, what skills you have. By having a 1:1 you will get a deeper understanding and they will also be able to help you guide through roadblocks or challenges you may face. A good mentor will be someone who cares about others and is willing to help them grow or dedicate time to them and provide advice when needed. A good mentor can be found anywhere, whether it is someone in your company or your past colleague or maybe a teacher in high school or someone in the same field as you or something you want to pursue. Mentorship is very beneficial as it will help you better your skills and drive you to be a better you in the long run.
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Ryan’s Answer

The journey toward success can sometimes feel overwhelming. But amidst the challenges and uncertainties, there lies a beacon of hope and inspiration – the power of human connection.

Finding a mentor can be a transformative experience in your personal and professional life. A mentor is someone who has more experience, knowledge, and wisdom in a specific area or field, and they can guide, support, and inspire you on your journey.

My favorite aspect of mentors is that they can challenge you to think critically, set goals, and push yourself beyond your comfort zone, fostering personal growth and development. They can also hold you accountable for your progress and ensure you remain focused and committed.

Finding a mentor has some fundamental challenges. First, you need to be clear about your goals. Second, look within your current network and be social. Go to events, join organizations, use social media and online platforms. Engage in content and send a personalized message expressing your interest in learning from them. Be proactive and genuine. Remember, build a relationship first. Relationships are built on trust so take your time to get to know each other before asking them to take on the role.

The process of finding a mentor is not just about seeking guidance. It's also about forging strong bonds and nurturing relationships built on trust, respect, and shared aspirations. In this ever-evolving world, these connections can be your touchstone, grounding you in a sense of optimism and resilience.
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Trevor’s Answer

I think as you go throughout your college and career you’ll naturally gravitate to certain people who maybe 3-5, 10-20 years ahead of you. Look to these individuals who show an interest in you to be good mentors. I think you will find them by just looking around you. It’s important to have them, because you can learn from them and their experiences.
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Supreet’s Answer

Having a mentor can be beneficial because they can provide guidance, support, and advice based on their own experiences and knowledge. They can help you navigate challenges and obstacles, provide feedback and constructive criticism, and help you set and achieve personal and professional goals. Additionally, a mentor can also serve as a role model and offer valuable networking opportunities.

If you have anything specific - please do let me know
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Molly’s Answer

Start with your network. Mentors are different from Career Coaches and from Sponsors. I personally gravitate towards Mentors who have similar interests and career goals as myself. I look for people who are in positions I could one day see myself in. Mentor relationships are often organic, and you can ask someone you have a relationship with to act as a Mentor if you feel comfortable. You can also ask people in your network if they know anyone who might be a good Mentor fit for you - it's all about networking!
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Diane’s Answer

I think the best way to find a Mentor is to get involved. Look for events within your company that you can join or attend. Training events, guest speaker presentations or even volunteer events that will allow you to meet people and get to know them. By making yourself visible you will get exposure to all different people that may not be in your same department or organization.

I personally prefer a mentor who inspires me and provides insight into their career while being their authentic self. Look for someone who you admire and begin general conversations with them. If the fit is right a mentorship will develop organically. Put yourself out there and be willing to pay it forward. I always try to reach back as I walk through the door and bring someone with me.

A mentor can be very beneficial to you, your career and your development by teaching you about their experiences. A true mentor will be honest with you and help you see a different perspective. Good luck!
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Misty’s Answer

I love this question. Even as adult working member of society, I still believe that we need mentors. However, having a true mentor, like several of the posts above state, can be really tough to establish. Someone that has AND is willing to give you their time (which is the BIGGEST commitment for a mentor) is a precious gift.
Something I have learned along the way is that "asking for a mentor" does not always generate the results you think it will. If you start aligning yourself with those that you admire in small ways. For example, join a project that they lead, set up small meetings that you can ask questions about them and their journey, because most people like to tell their experience but not in a "formal - I am your mentor" way. You almost have to "sneak" up to the mentoring relationship with someone. It does not always work, and some people are unobtainable for a meeting series that is daunting to think it will be a commitment for several months long. You, as the mentee have to be flexible and meet them where they are on any given day.

I believe it's important to find people that are both years ahead of you in the field you are interested in and that you just enjoy their work ethic even if they are in a different career to gather perspectives that you didn't know existed.

One ultimate goal is learning as much about yourself and others so that you have a deep knowledge of others' lives and what you are continuing to strive to be because one day you might notice someone is looking at you for their mentor path. :)
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Siddharth’s Answer

It is absolutely essential to have a mentor in your career as you advance through your professional goal. Both mentor and the mentee benefits from them. The mentor would give you an honest opinion about your weakness and will provide you insights on how you can improve them and make your weaknesses your strength ultimately. This would help you improve as well as advance in your career.
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Arathi’s Answer

Finding a mentor is incredibly important as you shape your career journey, A good mentor is not just aligned to your current role and company. A mentor has to be a beacon to guide you in your ambitions and professional goals. When I look back to my first job, my mentor helped me realize that it's okay to walk away from something I don't like doing. Even though it meant leaving the firm, he guided me to pursue my interests and helped me recognize what would spark my interest. Down the line, my mentors have guided me to understand complex decisions, to navigate tricky situations, and to move directionally right.

How to find a mentor? That depends on where you are in your journey? If you are starting out, start speaking out to your managers/team leads and other experienced folks who have been around for longer than you. When you connect, see if you are able to resonate with their advice and if they align with your goals and beliefs. You can also have more than one mentor!
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Jennifer’s Answer

I look for people I admire and respect, and who's career path is inspiring to me. I would then approach them and ask if they would consider mentorship. I have found most people are open to this and happy to share their stories and advice. I would set up regular check in conversations with them, maybe once every couple of months. I would come to those conversations with a clear sense of what I wanted to talk about and ask, so I could drive the conversation and make it meaningful. You can have more than one mentor! If you meet others during your career that you think would be good mentors, add them to your roster. Mentors can really help build your network and open doors for you so DO IT!
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Jake’s Answer

Mentoring is sometimes looked at as a one-way street where the Mentee is looking for support but in looking for a Mentor think about what you can bring to the table for them as well. What experience or perspective can you help with Mentor with while they help you with navigating your current career goals. A great mentor experience will turn into a long-lasting relationship.

When you are ready to search, find someone that will always support you, someone you can trust, someone you can bounce ideas off of. Don't be afraid to ask someone that is in a different field as it may provide other experiences and perspectives for you as well.

Lastly, just having someone to listen to you or provide feedback is the greatest gift of all!

Good Luck!
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Dhimant’s Answer

In simple terms, it's crucial to know the correct path to channel your energy. Often, we're unsure about the right decisions to make when facing challenges that could shape our career future. A mentor, having experienced these hurdles, can guide you on how to navigate such choices.

Having a mentor isn't just a necessity, but a valuable asset that can help you achieve your goals more effectively and efficiently. This guidance can provide a powerful boost to your journey, making the path to success smoother and more manageable.
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Stephanie’s Answer

I have had mentors that were suggested to me and they did not work out. I was successful in finding a mentor by finding an individual that I looked up to and asking for help. It turned into a weekly meet for 30mins where I could ask questions and was open to the advice they offered. I think it is more important to be open to the mentor's feedback then anything else. If someone is mentoring you and you completely dismiss there advice or suggestions, then what is the point. I also understand that sometimes people are not who we think they are after getting to know them, so if the mentor is not offering advice that is useful, than find a new mentor.
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