3 Reasons Finding a Mentor Will Rock Your Career

If you’re anything like me and you skipped the corporate office internships in college, your first job out of college can be a huge adjustment. First career-level jobs are never easy, but there has to be a first if there’s to be a second. As you get settled in with your very own workspace and phone extension, maybe even a box of business cards waiting for you on your desk, your peers will help you adjust to the quirks of office life. They’ll help you navigate the world of HR, casual Fridays, and changing the toner in the color printer (without accidentally turning your shoes blue).

But if you really want to rock your job and set yourself on a rewarding career path, here’s my number one way to succeed: find a mentor.

Three Ways to Make the Most of Your Mentoring Relationship

Look for an awesome mentor—and make it easy for your mentor to find you! Get engaged at every opportunity, be a team player, and let your strengths shine. Meet as many people as you can that are connected to the work you’re doing. You want a mentor who will see your potential, who will give you opportunities to succeed and challenge you to do greater work every day. You also want someone who will stand by you even as you make mistakes and who will help you learn from them.
Talk about what matters. Ask for feedback whenever you can and show that you’re committed to doing excellent work. Ask for opportunities if you think you’re ready for a new challenge. And ask your mentor how you can progress into newer roles with more responsibilities. A stellar mentor can help you map out a career path that will get you where you want to go. Your mentor may even be able to identify options you haven’t thought of. Remember that your mentor had a first job too, and they know how to negotiate promotions and even change jobs. A mentor can also serve as a reference if you do decide to switch jobs, and will be able to speak to your skills and character.
Remember that your mentor is so much more than a teacher and colleague. A mentor can be an excellent connection who can help you network, but also a life-long friend. She will want to help you succeed and can guide you through all the new and awkward situations that come with corporate jobs. She can commiserate when times are tough and give advice when you’re unsure. Don’t be afraid to forge a true friendship with your mentor. Getting a glass of wine or beer, or going for dinner with an older colleague is encouraged, even if the conversation isn’t about work. You both have lives outside the office; go ahead and share when you’ve got time to chat. Listen and don’t be afraid to comfort, to joke, and to laugh together.

Mentors Can Last a Lifetime

Remember that mentorship doesn’t have to end if and when you switch jobs. Change happens and people are more mobile than ever in today’s job world, but having a mentor can empower you throughout your career.

My mentor and I no longer share an employer, but our friendship is strong and we keep in touch. After hooting and hollering to my mother and best friend after getting selected for Get Smart, she was the first person I told. She has truly helped me empower my career and inspires me to greater things every time we talk. I know my mentor still has a lot of wisdom to offer and I know she appreciates my outlook, ideas, and enthusiasm. But most of all, I’m grateful for her friendship and she for mine.