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      How to Attract a Mentor

 Some Background Information

The ancient Greeks were among the first to use mentoring as a tool for developing talent.   Greek mythology provides us with much information on mentoring practices.  During the Trojan Wars, Odysseus left his son Telemachus with his friend Mentor who would teach and guide his son in his absence. 

The first recorded modern usage of the term can be traced to a book entitled "Les Aventures de Telemaque", by the French writer , published in 1699. In the book the lead character is that of Mentor. This book was very popular during the 18th century and the modern application of the term can be traced to this publication. programs" in which newcomers are paired with more experienced people, who advise them and serve as examples as they advance. Schools sometimes offer mentoring programs to new students, or students having difficulties. 

Mentor: a trusted friend, counselor or teacher, usually a more experienced person. Some professions have "

Today mentors provide expertise to less experienced individuals to help them advance their careers, enhance their education, and build their networks. In many different arenas people have benefited from being part of a mentoring relationship.  An example in the movies is Star Wars -

Formal Mentoring	Informal Mentoring
Defined length of time Specifically designed  Established goals, clarified and shared  Tied to Competences  Professional skills development  Organizational driven  Structured training	Undefined length of time (sometimes years) Occurs by chance  Goals and needs determined by individual  No accountability  Personal development  Personal chemistry  Training identified

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 2.         Determine the type of mentoring - Strategic Mentoring versus  Tactical  Mentoring

            Strategic- thinking, planning, and actions which reflect the  individuals' ability to  consider the big picture, recognize patterns and trends, honor priorities, anticipate issues, predict outcomes, and have smart alternatives to fall back upon.   Strategic issues deal with overriding mission and purpose, why the organization  exists, how it makes a difference that others don't or can't make, and where it  will be in the future. 

            Tactical- refers to the hands-on part of getting the job done, making sure the     strategic goals are met. It's performing each implementation task with quality and   efficiency.

           Note that both are very important. 

 

3.         Determine how a mentor can help? One of the most valuable things a mentor can do is help you take an honest look at yourself related to strategy and tactics.    Don't wait for the ideal mentor. Instead pull  key learnings from several.)Suggestions

• Identify your goals

                        -          Develop an individual career/life development plan  which charts out your career path and life goals            

                        -          Talk with your supervisor about your development needs

                        -          Identify formal leadership programs to which to apply

                        -           Identify specifically what you seek to learn from a mentor

           

• Excel at what you do

                               -          Know your job and go beyond the expected

                               -          Be identified as competent and trustworthy

                 

• Be Visible

                       -           Volunteer for special projects

                       -          Help others

                       -        Network with others

 

• Learn to take risks

                      -          Sign up for special projects

                      -          Introduce yourself to new people within the organization

                      -          Be prepared to accept feedback

                 

• Publicize Your Achievements

                     -          Write articles for agency, civic groups

                     -          Write a letter to a friend or family member about what you have accomplished in one year

                     -          Take pictures to capture the moment and feeling

 

• Use Political Savvy

                            -         Value your reputation

                     -         Choose well - research the reputation of the Mentor

                     -         Be perceived as an ethical team player

                    -          Think strategically about how you will reach your goals

                 

     

Related Articles

  Why Small Business Entrepreneurs Need a Mentor
  How To Effectively Use Business Mentoring
  How to Find the Best Mentor for Your Needs
  Business Mentoring Programs
  The Success of a Mentee Is a Mentor’s Ultimate Reward
  Why would someone come to work for you?
  The Power and Profit of Mentorship
  Mentoring - It’s All Greek to Me!
  Mentors – Do you have one?
  Why Having a Mentor is so Important for Your Business
  Finding the Right Mentor
  Do you need a mentor?
  Why You Need a Mentor
  Q&A - Problem with a mentor
  Do you have a mentor
  Mentors Make Magic in Your Life
  Mirroring Your Mentor’s Success
  Get Yourself a Mentor
  Characteristics of a Mentor
  Do you have a good Mentor for your Business?

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