Mentorship is a valuable career accelerator. As you grow in your career, it becomes increasingly important to have a guide who can offer radical candor, empathetic listening and even a key to open doors for new jobs and networks. That said, many team members I’ve worked with over the years haven’t had the good fortune and advice of a mentor. Here are three reasons why you need a mentor (and some tips for finding one).
An outside perspective
Sometimes people will look at their boss as a mentor. Bosses are great and if you luck into having one who takes a personal interest in your career growth, count yourself lucky. But bosses – even great bosses – can’t always provide the outside perspective you may need. The relationship is different than a true mentor because they are focused not only on your growth, but that of other team members as well as the delivery of the product or service that you and your team provide. They’re also (unfortunately) often dis-incented to help rock-stars move on – even if it’s the right career move for the team member – because finding your replacement can be tricky. A mentor has no such compunction. They are there first and foremost for you and can provide advice and perspective that may support your career growth, but not necessarily the objectives of your boss/team. They can also offer an outlet for you to be candid about your frustrations and challenges, without worrying about how this will be perceived. That’s perspective you need to hear.
New networks and opportunities
As you grow in your career, an increasing number of (desirable) opportunities are available only through more informal mechanisms. Well-placed mentors can offer both intelligence on these positions, (like what specific experiences they might be looking for) as well as promote your career to hiring managers and leaders (“hey hiring manager – have you heard of this guy named John Horn? He’s well worth considering for that role you are looking to fill because of his leadership, writing and beard-growing skills – he can also reach things in high places). Personal recommendations often take you farther than just a stellar resume or cover letter in getting attention and a foot in the door for an interview.
New ideas
I’ve always appreciated the new ideas my mentors have fostered. Unlike going to professional development events, you tend to get the real goods – issues (as well as triumphs), candid learnings as well as a focused intent on helping you utilize the best pieces for your own work. Such relationships can forge all sorts of innovations that can be executed in your job. They can also help problem solve on challenges. Taking advantage of this sort of learning is crucial for growth in your role and more broadly in your profession.