5 Reasons Why You Should Get a Mentor

This time last year, I participated in my first mentorship program as a Mentee. I would say it was at a pivotal time in my career. At the time, I was feeling plateaued in my previous role and needing change, badly. I was paired with someone within the sphere of work that I do, and during those six months, I learned a lot about myself and got a new role by the end of it! As the year comes closer to an end, and if you were thinking about the next steps for how you can move your career forward next year, whether you are looking for a new role or wanting to expand your horizons, I hope the below helps! Here are five reasons why you should get a mentor:

1. Networking

I wouldn’t have made this professional contact without this mentorship program. Developing that relationship with my mentor was invaluable to my progression as I moved forward with my career. I remember during our monthly meetings, I told her I had applied to this tech company, and right away, she asked if I wanted a referral because she knew someone. While that opportunity didn’t work out, knowing that she was in my corner ready to support me gave me that much more confidence to move forward.

2. Mentors Act As A Sounding Board

Having a seasoned professional listen to your ideas, and having them, in turn, share their thoughts is so valuable. My mentor was from an external company. Although there are pros and cons, I saw more advantages using her feedback to change my train of thought, including demeanor as I was speaking – there was always something to take away each time we met.

3. Mentors Help You Goal Set

At the time, I shared my desire for a change. Change can be interpreted as anything, a new hair colour, a new garment. After much discussion, I was able to articulate that the change I wanted and needed was a new role at a different organization. When my goal was clear, I shared what my action plan was, and my mentor was there to provide feedback, guidance, and perspective as needed.

4. Mentors Find Ways to Help With Personal & Professional Growth

One thing that I’ve taken away from my time with my mentor is not to hug the robot, because it won’t hug you back. The robot is your job. That’s not to say you cannot commit to your job right now; however, don’t let other opportunities pass you by, or don’t your job stop you from exploring other options. Also, there are ways to grow outside of your work! I started this blog because I wanted to document my travels and share my outfit ideas. With that, I’ve learned plenty about Google Analytics that I didn’t know before.

5. Mentors Are Free

Everyone has the same 24 hours, which is why having someone to share their knowledge, experience, and wisdom with you is even more invaluable. As my mentor shared with me, she mentors because she finds satisfaction in helping others, and staying connected in the industry is essential.

5 Reasons Why You Should Get a Mentor_WithMichelle

PRO TIP:

Look within your organization, is there someone that you look admire? Ask them if they can mentor you to build on that relationship. Google mentorship programs and find one that fits you. Getting a mentor can be helpful in any stage of your career and how you forge that relationship is up to you.