Having a professional mentor can be a great support system in your career journey as a student or new employee. Mentors can offer advice, share their experiences, connect you with opportunities and support you when things feel tough.
But how do you actually find a mentor? Here are three tips to help you connect with the right people in your industry.
Put Yourself Out There
The best way to meet potential mentors is to get involved in clubs, organizations or professional associations related to your field.
While participating in a FastForward program, be sure to introduce yourself to instructors, guest speakers and classmates. You never know who might become a mentor or connect you to one. Internships and part-time jobs are another great way to meet professionals who can guide you. Even social organizations or volunteer groups can lead to meaningful connections.
Don’t Overlook Your Existing Network
Sometimes, your best mentors are already in your life. Family, friends, former teachers or coaches can all offer valuable advice and insight.
Be sure to utilize the resources at your local community college, including your career coach and professors. If you know someone working in a field you’re interested in, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask them to share their experience.
Stay Connected
A mentor relationship doesn’t end when a job or class does. Stay in touch by connecting on LinkedIn, sending occasional emails or scheduling a coffee chat. Even virtual check-ins can keep the mentorship alive.
Building and maintaining strong mentor relationships takes time, but the effort you put in now will pay off in the long run. Trust the process – you’ve got this.
And if you find yourself in the position to pay it forward and take on a mentee in the future, be sure to read our blog post on how to be a great mentor.
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