The first step to finding a mentor is admitting that you have the potential to grow but need help getting there. Having the guts to rise to incredible heights by seeking a mentor is half the battle.
Here’s what you need to know to do the rest.
It may take some time, but find yourself a giant and walk alongside them for as long as possible.
- Know what your goals are so you can match them to the right person. Take time to figure out your long- and short-term goals. Envision your dreams, where do you see yourself in one year? In five years? 10 years? Knowing where you’re headed, will ensure you find someone who has gone in the same direction.
- Take some time to think about the people you admire and the jobs they do. Consider those in and out of your chosen career path. You will most likely want to choose another nurse, but, depending on your career goals, the sky’s the limit. Make a list of those who hold positions you’d like to hold someday, who work in jobs you’d like to perform, or who are making the changes you’d like to see made.
- Spend the time to research the paths of the positions of those you admire. How did they get there? What education did they complete? What jobs did they hold prior to their current position? What skills did they acquire to get there? Understanding the course they took will help you know if their path aligns with yours.
- Network relentlessly. Networking is not for the weak and it may take months or years. Start by making connections in your field with those you already work with or with those who already have the abilities to mentor you. You could start by asking them to help you with just one area, one small thing.
In working with them they will see your ethics and character. When you’re thanking them for their help, you can ask them for a connection to a person they know who has the expertise you’re really looking for. They will be happy to help because they will already know you and all you’re capable of doing. - Introduce yourself in an email initially. This is usually okay, depending on the person. You could start with a request for an informal, informational meeting to discuss mentorship options. Be upfront and let them know why you’re contacting them. Explain why meeting with you is worth their time and effort. Stand out by discussing their work and career and who recommended them to you.
- Meet or speak with each person informally ahead of time, if possible, to discuss your career path and get an idea of what their professional goals are. What are they working on right now? Mention what you like about their work, this will show that you’ve done your homework. It will also allow you to get a sense of how it would be to work together and if you two would be a good fit.
- Ask for formal mentorship in person if possible. It’s best to meet face-to-face for this but in these days of COVID, it may not happen. However, even being willing to Zoom with them shows you are willing to do what it takes and open to instruction and feedback. Be sure they understand that they have an option and this meeting is by no means an obligation.
- Have your pitch ready. When you ask, know ahead of time what you’ll say! Know your goals. Know why this is the right mentor for you. Be clear about the time commitment. Be certain about what you’re willing to do and what you’re expecting from them.
Write it out if you have to and practice it ahead of time. Don’t waste their time or yours. Be concise and genuine. - Be grateful and gracious regardless of the response. The answer may be no, be ready for that. Without missing a beat, be sure to tell them you admire their career path and are grateful that they took the time to consider this.
- Always leave the door open for future growth for this relationship. If you feel comfortable, ask them to make a recommendation for a mentor(s) now that they know you and have an idea of your goals.
- Always send a hand-written follow up thank you, regardless of the answer.
This is an excerpt from my book, The Beginner’s Guide to Nursing: What They Didn’t Tell You in Nursing School. Need more help or advice for your nursing career? Pick up your FREE PDF of The Beginner’s Guide to Nursing now.
Cheers!
