105: How To Find A Mentor - a podcast by Dave Stachowiak

Dave Stachowiak: Coaching for Leaders

In Greek mythology, Mentor was a friend of Odysseus and was placed in charge of his son Telemachus when Odysseus left for war.Merriam-Webster's dictionary calls a mentor,"A trusted counselor or guide."What do you want to get from mentoring?

Probably what you aren’t good at (or at least not yet)Plus, it's something that's important for you to get better at

Advance planningWho do you know who's good at that?
Are there multiple people?You don't have to know them today
Your greatest mentors will never expect anythingIdentify specifically how someone can help and begin there
Make a mind map of the people who could helpCreate a board of directors

Getting StartedStart off with a specific question
Know that not everyone will respond or won’t be willing to helpWait on asking someone to “be a mentor”

Everyone has a different context for thisIt could seem like a huge commitment
It's awkward if they don't want to make that committment



Find a way to connect regularlyThis is where proximity and formal programs can help
Make a point to connect regularlyIt’s great to be influenced by those that you don’t speak with regularly, but find people you will see

Be willing to ask for helpGet out of the “asking for help is a weakness” mentality

What’s something in front of you right now that a new perspective would be helpful with? My challenge to you is to go out and identify a person and approach them with a specific question and ask advice. Remember, you don’t have to take the advice. If they don’t respond, identify a second person.Past shows that might also be helpful to you on the topic of mentoring:

Episode #61: How to Start A Mentoring Program with guest Stella CowanEpisode #63: Practical Advice for Mentoring with guest Kurt Allebach

Discover MoreActivate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic.

Further episodes of Coaching for Leaders

Further podcasts by Dave Stachowiak

Website of Dave Stachowiak