A mentor can make a huge difference in your career. They’ve been where you want to go—and they can guide you through the ups and downs. But how do you find one?
Start with your goals. What do you want to learn or achieve? Knowing this helps you find someone with the right experience.
Then, look around. A mentor doesn’t have to be your boss. They can be a former teacher, someone in your network, or even a connection on LinkedIn. Look for someone who shares your values and has a career path you admire.
When reaching out, be polite and clear. “Hi, I’ve followed your work for some time and admire your path in marketing. Would you be open to a short conversation about your journey and advice for someone starting out?”
Not everyone will say yes—and that’s okay. Mentorship is about chemistry and timing. Keep trying.
Once you find someone, respect their time. Come prepared with questions, follow up after meetings, and act on their advice.
A mentor isn’t there to give you all the answers. But they can shine a light on the path ahead—and help you avoid a few potholes along the way.