A mentor, by definition, is “a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.” Chances are, you’ve heard about the benefits of having a mentor. Listen to any successful person and you’ll almost always hear them speak about the mentors they’ve had along the way.

A mentor, by definition, is “a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.” Chances are, you’ve heard about the benefits of having a mentor. Listen to any successful person and you’ll almost always hear them speak about the mentors they’ve had along the way.

When I began my career, a “mentor” seemed like a character in a Dickens’ novel; a mysterious benefactor who anointed themselves as your ultimate source for guidance and advice.

However, unless you happen to be a fictional character living in the nineteenth century, it’s usually up to YOU to take the initiative and find yourself a mentor. But where should you look?

1. Your current job. Look for others who could offer valuable insight or perspective, regardless of their position or department.
2. Local organizations. Join a professional organization, support a charitable cause, or get involved with a social group. Better yet, volunteer! You never know where you’ll make a valuable connection.
3. Mentor programs. Seek out structured programs that match protégés with experienced mentors, such as AMADC’s Mentor Program. Although most programs have a set timeframe, some partnerships result in an ongoing relationship. This was the case for Andy Brown, who completed the program as a protégé. “If it had ended there, I would have been satisfied – but my expectations were exceeded,” he said.
4. Your alma mater. Reach out to your school’s alumni office or career center. Many hold networking events and offer directories or other resources to connect alumni.
5. Relatives, friends, neighbors. Take a look at your existing connections – a great mentor could be right next door. Don’t limit yourself to your industry or profession.
6. Your network’s network. Ask friends and colleagues for references.

So now that you’ve identified a potential mentor, what next? If you aren’t in a structured mentoring program, it’s up to you to make the first move.

One option is to specifically ask them if they’d like to be your mentor. It can help to tell them why you’ve identified them and what you’d expect out of a relationship. Are you looking for advice on particular topic, or just someone to talk to?

If formally asking them seems forced or inappropriate, let the relationship develop organically. Reach out to see if they would be willing to talk to you over coffee, lunch, or happy hour. If the first meeting goes well, ask if they are willing to stay in touch.

Once you have a mentor, remember that it takes effort to build a relationship. “Be prepared to do your share to make it work. A good mentor will support your professional goals, but they can’t set and achieve them for you,” says Brown. Take the lead in continuing communication, but be respectful of their time. And always show your appreciation; tell them how their advice has helped you, send a handwritten thank you note, or offer to pick up the bill at a meeting.

With a little effort, you’ll gain a valuable resource and you’ll both benefit from a rewarding relationship.