Secret #4 Finding a Mentor

I have had several mentors over the years. Without them I believe my career would have taken a very different turn. These mentors did several things for me. They taught me how to do my job better. They helped me avoid mistakes by advising me on my career. They even helped me learn to present myself in a more professional manner. Mentors will aid you on the path of your career.

Mentors can come from many areas. They can be your boss, a teacher, or even a career coach. You want someone who has achieved what you want to achieve. They already know the path and can guide you on the ins and outs of getting where you want to go. Cultivate these relationships. They are best when they are not a one way street. Figure out how you can be supportive to your mentor. Even if it is just occasionally buying them a lunch. You can also look for mentors outside your circle of acquaintances. Look at some of the most successful people in your field and see how you can contact them. Offer something in return for their mentorship. Maybe you can be their virtual assistant in return for their guidance.

Another plus of having a mentor is being with someone who is at a higher level than you. The more you surround yourself with people that are more successful than you the better off you are. There is a belief that you earn the average of the people you associate yourself with. So if money is a measure of success for you be with people who earn a lot of money.

Mentors cut the learning curve in a career substantially. Always be on the look out for them on your path to success and you will find yourself arriving at your destination earlier than planned.