Level Up in 30 Days to Attract a Top-Notch Mentor

Hey friends,

This morning we're going to continue discussing the power of mentorship and how you can attract an incredible mentor. Yes, you heard me correctly; "attract." For far too many years, I thought that being "mentored" meant waiting for someone to just magically "see my potential" and offer to mentor me. Sure, that still happens, but much of the time it stems from intentionality and taking action.

Even the best of us are burdened by life and oftentimes miss opportunities to engage those who are (even slightly) behind us in career progression. If you're looking to attract a high-performing mentor, be prepared for what it means to land that opportunity. You might be thinking, ok, that's cool, but what now?

I'm glad you asked. Let's check out what it takes to grab a potential mentor's attention in the next 30 days.

Step 1: Who's your target?

I'm assuming you likely have an idea of who you'd like to connect with. And if that's the case, you're already ahead of the game. But if not, don't sweat it. If you're still trying to identify a career to pursue, then ask yourself these questions: What skills come easy? What opportunities are right in front of me? What're the abilities people around me seem to notice? What keeps me up at night? What problems do I daydream about solving? Clarify your career goals and identify the specific areas in which you need guidance and support. Knowing your goals will help you find a mentor whose expertise aligns with your aspirations.

Step 2: What're your mentor options?

Look for potential mentors within your industry or field of interest. Utilize professional networking platforms, attend industry events, and ask for recommendations from colleagues or professors. Consider their experience, expertise, and compatibility with your goals.

Step 3: Reach Out and Connect

This is where it gets real. The good thing is, you can avoid a major mistake so many others make at this stage. They immediately ask the person if they could "be their mentor," and let's be honest, that's risky. Here's what I'd do: see if you have any mutual friends who would be willing to make a warm intro – those are the best. If not, don't worry. Craft a warm and human-centric email or LinkedIn message. Set up what I call a "low-risk ask," essentially, an ask that requires much less from the potential mentor. A 15-minute call, Zoom, or coffee. It's literally that easy. If done the right way, the message is received well. It's not foolproof, so set your expectations before reaching out.

Step 4: Don't just ask them to be your mentor

Let's be honest, the term "mentorship" is more about someone encouraging you, directing you, introducing you, and supporting you. So, ask them about their experiences, path, challenges, and any advice or perspective. Never (or at least rarely) ask for something from them (other than their perspective). If you sense the meeting went well, make sure you get their email and cell number to keep in touch.

Step 5: Express Gratitude and Commitment

After the initial meeting, express your gratitude for their time and insights. If the mentorship relationship seems promising, send a handwritten message (or text, email).

Remember, finding a mentor is not just about receiving guidance, but also about building a mutually beneficial relationship. Be genuine, respectful, and open-minded throughout the process. With determination and active effort, you can find a professional mentor in just 30 days to propel your career forward.

You got this.

Mark