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How to Choose the Right Mentor
Mentors are a great resource for your professional development, but how can you develop such a relationship?
Know what you want. How will having a mentor help you move up in your current area or switch career paths? Look for a mentor who can help you reach your specific goals.
Create a list of well-respected people. Think about people who:
- Are well-respected in your workplace
- Would have the time and the energy for you
- You think would be good teachers
Observe how other colleagues react to the people on your list.
Nix your supervisor. Asking an immediate boss to be a mentor could put both of you in an awkward position when conflicts and challenges arise at your job.
Be considerate of a future mentor. Remember that choosing a mentor is a two-way street, so make it clear to the person what you will expect from them as your mentor.