Acclimating to a new role can be daunting for anyone – regardless of experience. This is especially true for a new college graduate. However, there are things that you can do to help you navigate the waters more easily. One of them is finding a mentor.

Why have a mentor
The American Society for Training and Development shows that 75 percent of executives credit their success to mentors, and a CNBC/SurveyMonkey Workplace Happiness Survey found that more than 90 percent of workers who have a mentor say they are satisfied with their jobs.

There are numerous benefits of having a mentor, which can range from helping you set goals to supporting growth in your career.  “The primary role of a mentor is to ask thought-provoking questions and offer direction that encourages growth,” Matt Williams, senior director of business development at STAT Recovery Services and partner at DSCMFT, states. “Instead of telling you exactly what to do, a good mentor helps you navigate your own journey and avoid significant pitfalls.”

Effective Mentorship Tips

Here are some essential steps to prepare for finding and building a relationship with a mentor:

  1. Seek Guidance: Mentorship is about seeking guidance from experienced individuals. They can provide valuable insights and advice that can help you navigate your career path more effectively. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
  2. Be Proactive: Don’t wait for a mentor to come to you. Take the initiative to reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in learning from them.
  3. Set Clear Goals: Before meeting with your mentor, have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. This will help you make the most of your mentorship sessions.
  4. Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is a crucial part of growth. Be open to feedback from your mentor and use it to improve your skills and knowledge.
  5. Build a Relationship: Mentorship is not just about professional growth; it’s also about building a relationship. Take the time to get to know your mentor and let them get to know you.

Choosing the right mentor is a crucial step in any mentee’s journey, as the right guidance can significantly impact personal and professional growth. “Look for a mentor who knows how to do the parts you don’t know how to do that are holding you back from your talent,” says Doug Mullett, Founder and Solutions Architect of Forthright LED Lighting.

Ultimately, the length of a mentorship should be flexible and based on the needs and preferences of both the mentor and mentee. While you are involved in this, stay dedicated to the process and be consistent in your efforts to learn and grow.

By following these guidelines and insights you can find a mentor who will help you achieve your goals and support your personal and professional development. Remember, the right mentor can significantly impact your journey, providing the guidance and support needed to navigate your career path successfully.

Please make sure you check out the rest of the articles in our graduate series: Launch Your Career: 4 Strategic Steps for New College Graduates, Career Centers: A Key Component in Your Job Search, and The Art of Professional Networking for Recent College Graduates.

Our experienced recruiters at TM Floyd can help you with your job search. Contact our team today for our current opportunities.