Lady Dianne's Blog

How to Attract a Mentor

Recently in a radio interview, I was asked how to attract a mentor. This is a written response to that question.

Some Background Information

The ancient Greeks were among the first to use mentoring as a tool for developing talent.   Greek mythology provides us with much information on mentoring practices.  During the Trojan Wars, Odysseus left his son Telemachus with his friend Mentor who would teach and guide his son in his absence. 

The first recorded modern usage of the term can be traced to a book entitled "Les Aventures de Telemaque", by the French writer François Fénelon, published in 1699.  In the book the lead character is that of Mentor. This book was very popular during the 18th century and the modern application of the term can be traced to this publication.

Mentor: a trusted friend, counselor or teacher, usually a more experienced person. Some professions have "mentoring programs" in which newcomers are paired with more experienced people, who advise them and serve as examples as they advance. Schools sometimes offer mentoring programs to new students, or students having difficulties.

Today mentors provide expertise to less experienced individuals to help them advance their careers, enhance their education, and build their networks. In many different arenas people have benefited from being part of a mentoring relationship.  An example in the movies is Star Wars - Obi-wan Kenobi mentored Anakin Skywalker and his son Luke Skywalker.   However there are other examplse:

• Politicians - Aristotle mentored Alexander the Great
• Business people - Freddie Laker mentored Richard Branson
• Movie Directors - Martin Scorsese mentored Oliver Stone at New York University

Today mentoring is considered a key development tool, like courses, books, coaches, 360 Degree Feedback, self-reflection, etc.

The student of a mentor is called a protégé or mentee. A potential mentee can do much to attract a mentor.  But first you must make some decisions:

1.       Determine if you need formal entoring           vs. informal mentoring.  Many people start with mentors at the informal level and then go   in to a formal organizational mentoring program.

2.       Determine the type of mentoring - Strategic

          Mentoring versus Tactical Mentoring

Strategic- thinking, planning, and actions which

reflect the individuals’ ability to consider the 

big picture, recognize patterns and  trends, honor priorities, anticipate issues, predict outcomes, and have  smart alternatives to fall back upon. Strategic issues deal with overriding mission and purpose, why the organization exists, how it makes a difference that others don't or can't make, and where it will be in the future.

Tactical-  refers to the hands-on part of getting the job done, making   sure the strategic goals are met. It's performing each implementation task with quality and efficiency.

Note that both are very important. 

3.       Determine how a mentor can help? One of the most valuable things a  mentor can do is help you take an honest look at yourself  related to  strategy and         tactics.   Don’t wait for the ideal mentor. Instead pull     key learnings from several.)

Suggestions

·        Identify your goals

                   ■       Develop an individual career/life development plan which charts out your career path and life goals               

                   ■       Talk with your supervisor about your development needs

                   ■       Identify formal leadership programs to which to apply

                   ■       Identify specifically what you seek to learn from a mentor

·        Excel at what you do

              ■       Know your job and go beyond the expected

              ■       Be identified as competent and trustworthy

·        Be Visible

              ■       Volunteer for special projects

              ■       Help others

              ■       Network with others

·        Learn to take risks

              ■       Sign up for special projects

              ■       Introduce yourself to new people within the organization

              ■        Be prepared to accept feedback

·        Publicize Your Achievements

              ■       Write articles for agency, civic groups

              ■       Write a letter to a friend or family member about what you have accomplished in one year

              ■       Take pictures to capture the moment and feeling

·        Use Political Savvy

              ■       Value your reputation

              ■       Choose well – research the reputation of the Mentor

              ■       Be perceived as an ethical team player

              ■       Think strategically about how you will reach your goals

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