Sometimes you need an expert with specific information, life experience, and advice that will help you move forward. That's when you need a mentor.
A mentor is not going to land you a cushy job. She may provide you with contacts to help, but her responsibilities are more personal and concrete. Or he can be a role model, a fountain of information, a sounding board, a teacher, and an entree to other professionals in your chosen field. Here's how to get started finding just such an individual.
* Start with a clear focus.
Take some time to think about your long-term career goals, time frame, and commitment level. What are your biggest issues right now? What are your biggest obstacles? Where do you feel you need the most guidance (networking, education, company politics, work/life balance)? Write down your answers.
* Look under your nose and far beyond it.
Make a list of all the people you admire professionally. Look both to your personal network and to leaders in your field. Consider former colleagues and clients, professional association members, family friends, and alumni of your college or university. Also consider formal mentoring programs offered through your company or professional association. Start off by considering anyone as a potential mentor -- you have nothing to lose!
* Interview your prospective mentors.
Once you've decided on your top choices for mentor, ask each of them out for coffee or lunch. Tell each prospect that you are looking for a mentor to guide you in your career, and explain what goals you are hoping to achieve. Show them your plans and share your issues. Be honest about why you think each person might be a good choice. Most people will be flattered that their guidance is of interest to you, and most will be honest about their ability to commit to helping you.
* Be clear about time commitments and expectations.
While many people may want to help you, not everyone has the time to take on the commitment of mentorship. Be clear about how much time both the mentor and mentee can commit to the relationship. Try starting with monthly chats or meetings to get to know each other and set clear goals with time frames attached. With modern technology, mentoring can take place by phone, e-mail, or even instant messaging, but it's important to be clear about expectations on both sides so that no one feels overburdened or neglected.
* Remember that mentoring is a two-way street.
For mentoring to be effective, both the mentor and the mentee must benefit. Mentors can learn from the freshness of the mentee while working through her career issues together. The best professionals learn from all experiences, including teaching and coaching others. So choose your mentor wisely and constantly reassess the helpfulness of the relationship to your career.
Tory Johnson is the CEO of Women For Hire and the workplace contributor on ABC's "Good Morning America." Connect with her at womenforhire.com.
The opinions expressed in this column are solely the author's.
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