The Importance of Mentorship

Written By: Carly Burr

Whether you’re creating a new company, need help figuring out what to wear for your first job interview, or just need to get something off your chest, having a mentor is like having a free therapist. They are always there for you if you need them.

I didn’t learn the true importance of mentorship until I enrolled in the entrepreneurship program offered at my high school. I was able to network with an array of successful entrepreneurs and have the privilege of meeting with them outside of school. I know if I ever need advice on something I’m struggling with, my mentors will jump on a quick call with me and help me. Mentors are like the catalyst in your science project. They help you grow and develop into someone that you didn't even realize you can be. A mentor can encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone so you can blossom into an amazing person!

When I met Melissa for the first time in person, I knew that our bond was going to be unbreakable. She has shown me the importance of having someone to look up to both in the business world, and in life. Melissa showed me that you can have fun while being successful, how important it is to make time for yourself, and that everything happens for a reason, even the bad stuff. Throughout my two years of knowing and working with Melissa, I have learned so much about myself (personally and professionally) and would not be the person that I am today without her. In her new book CLUES, she discusses the importance of the 12 stages to the Hero’s Journey, and carefully lays out each step. Step 4 is “Meeting Your Mentor”, and is a crucial point within the Hero’s Journey. This is the point where the Hero desperately needs guidance and someone to help them build strength and confidence to continue their quest, so that they can come out on the other side stronger. Since this is such an important part in your journey, I am going to give you some tips and tricks to finding your mentor.

Network, Network, Network

Networking is hands down one of the most important tactics you can use in your life. Not only is it extremely critical in helping you succeed in the business world, but it is also especially helpful in your personal life. In this case, if you are looking to find a mentor, you should network as much as you can. Join a club or mentorship program at your school. Go to every guest speaker event that you can attend and make a LinkedIn account. Always be friendly and talk to everyone. For instance, when I worked at Bloomingdales and was on my lunch break, I decided that I wanted to get a sample of chocolate frozen yogurt. I was wearing a white dress. Inevitably, I spilled the frozen yogurt all over my dress, and the lady who was eating next to me helped me get the stain out as best as she could. We started talking and she told me that she was very successful in the pharmaceutical sales industry, and gave me awesome advice within our 10 minute conversation. We never ended up speaking again, but I got her email and some great insight. Try to do this as much as you can, because you never know who you will meet.

Send Follow Up Emails

Once you start to meet new people and get their contact information, make sure you follow up with them. Even if you don’t see that specific person becoming your mentor, or they’re working in an industry you have no interest in, you should make sure that your appreciation is shown. When Melissa came to our class and spoke, I sent a follow up email letting her know how much I loved her story and how inspiring she was. People appreciate when you take the time to reach out to them and give them compliments.

Be Sure the Relationship Is Mutual

If you feel like you have a strong connection with someone and have had a few meetings with them, make sure the relationship is mutual! You can say “I feel we have a really strong connection, and I have benefited from your advice. I would love to meet once a month or every few weeks and have you as my mentor”. This way, your mentor understands that they are committing to a long term relationship, and there is no confusion along the way.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Advice

Something I have learned throughout my mentorship journey is that your mentors are there for you and want to help you. Sometimes I would find myself being hesitant in reaching out to someone because I didn’t want to be a “burden” to them. Your mentors are more than happy to help you. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for help when you are struggling or need a boost of confidence! One conversation with someone can change your whole mindset about a certain situation.

Listen to Your Gut

Like any other situation, be aware of what your gut is telling you. It can be really hard to do that sometimes, but when you know, you know. If you feel like you have a special connection with someone, reach out to them or start that conversation. Everything happens for a reason, and if that person is meant to be your mentor, then they will be your mentor.

Having a mentor is an extremely important aspect in your personal growth and development. Being able to look up to and surround yourself with someone who has learned from their mistakes and is successful in their field will change your life. You will feel motivated, happy, and like you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Make sure to choose a mentor who you have a real connection with, and that you feel will help pick you off your feet. Once you find your mentor, you will likely move onto step 5 of the Hero’s Journey: Crossing the first threshold. If you aren’t sure what stage of the Hero’s Journey you are in, you should check out our book CLUES, located in the “Books” tab on our website!