Career
Finding a Mentor
Learn from someone who's already walked the path you're on.
A good mentor can compress years of learning into months. They've made the mistakes you're about to make, learned the lessons the hard way, and can help you avoid pitfalls they didn't see coming. More than advice, they provide perspective, a view from further down the road that helps you make better decisions today.
But mentors don't fall from the sky. Finding and cultivating these relationships requires intentionality and effort.
What to Look For
- Ahead of you: Where you want to be in 5-10 years
- Character: Someone you respect, not just someone successful
- Availability: Willing and able to invest time
- Honesty: Will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear
- Relevance: Experience that applies to your situation
Don't ask someone to "be your mentor." That's too big and vague. Ask for something specific: "Could I buy you coffee and ask about how you navigated X?" Relationships grow from there.
How to Find Mentors
Look around: Your workplace, industry, church, community.
Start small: One conversation, one question, one coffee.
Add value: Don't just take. Find ways to contribute.
Be teachable: Mentors invest in people who actually listen.
Follow through: Do what they suggest, then report back.
Your Action Steps
This week: Identify 2-3 people who are where you want to be.
This month: Reach out to one with a specific, small ask.
This quarter: Nurture at least one mentoring relationship intentionally.