How To Build A Meaningful Relationship With Your Mentor

Last year, I didn’t know which industry and which roles would be the ones for me after graduation. I struggled a lot while researching on my own, as nothing is better than an insider’s point of view. That’s when someone suggested the idea of having a mentor. I chose someone at a C-level position with a ton of knowledge in an industry I loved. Most importantly, I chose someone willing to take the time and to be as brutally honest as possible. I didn’t want a marketing pitch about the industry, I wanted the hard truth behind one of my dream jobs. Those challenging conversations helped me avoid an industry that wasn’t for me anymore, to increase my self-awareness about my skills and to find a job at a company that truly aligned with my values and insatiable desire to grow!

Here are three tips to help you get the best out of your mentorship journey!

1. Set Expectations

First, you have to take time to reflect and write down what are your expectations from that mentorship. Is it discovering an unknown industry, doing mock up interviews, or understanding how that person got into that position. It will help you clarify the expectations from that relationship and make sure that your mentor is the right person to accompany you in your journey.

2. Maintain The Relationship

Secondly, be invested! You are the one seeking help, so be enthusiastic and follow up regularly with your mentor. Don’t be disappointed if you don’t get an answer immediately, your mentor is a professional and he/she might need some time before getting back to you. Besides, Graditude will help set up regular meetings via our mentorship guidelines.

3. Take Notes

Thirdly, the program will last for an entire academic year, take notes of all the advice and your progress along the year. Don’t be shy and take full advantage of your mentor’s knowledge.

As the saying goes, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”. Having a mentor is something that can be helpful to jump-start your career. Graditude is an online mentorship programme that bridges the gap between education and employment. Sign up now to kick start your mentorship programme.