Who Needs A Mentor?
Why, YOU --of course
Sooo… let’s be clear. While all business owners would benefit from having a mentor, young entrepreneurs benefit most.
And….what exactly is a MENTOR?
A mentor is an experienced and trusted advisor who counsels and trains a younger colleague or business owner. Both qualities are equally important.
….what is a MENTEE?
That’s you!
What are the two primary functions of a mentor?
To coach and provide advice to enhance a mentee’s --
- Professional Performance
- Development
Although there are many …
Here are some of the best reasons to have a mentor:
-To gain greater experience and a fresh perspective
-To access more opportunities for networking
-To get assistance in building your company’s culture/brand/identity
-To strengthen your management skills
-To have help making critical decisions
Does a mentor make decisions for you?
Absolutely not! They help you develop the necessary skills / acumen to make wise decisions for your business. They are there to guide you, not replace you! The key words are trust and experience. A good mentor must have both.
Now that you know what a mentor is, here are some things that a mentor is NOT:
- a ‘friend’ - a problem solver
- a personal assistant - a gossip
- a stand-in for you
Now that you know that having a mentor is a great business strategy, how do you find one?
According National Public Radio. Before you take the first step to finding a mentor, make sure you know what you want from your business and from your mentor.
1. What do you want? (both short and long-term). Take some time to think of your short and long range goals. How can a mentor help you reach a three month, then a one year goal? In order for them to help you, you have to know what you want and be able to articulate it. “The more specific you are on what you want, the easier it will be to find the right mentor”.
2. Do the research. Ask yourself “Who do I look up to?” Who is your immediate role model in business? This person does not have to specialize in your product or skillset, but they should be someone who has shown proven success in a business and has the temperament to teach, model and inspire.
3. Making the request. Choosing and reaching out to a potential mentor is not an overnight process. Take time to get to know them better. Do they have the temperament to work with a young person, are they available/do they have time, consider someone who has mentored young people before and make sure they come highly recommended and without. They can mentor over Zoom, if they do not live close by. As long as they are available for mutually agreed upon meeting times.
In need of a mentor? Send us an email at info@masonmakesmoneyfund.org and we'll connect you with one!