What to look for in a mentor as an aspiring leader
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A leadership mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support as you advance in your career, but finding the right one isn't always straightforward.
Learn about the qualities of an effective mentor, where to look for one, and the benefits of mentorship.
Benefits of having a leadership mentor
A mentor can help aspiring leaders navigate key decisions and career paths as they rise through the ranks. For Dr. Angelica Gutierrez, a professor of management at Loyola Marymount University, her leadership mentor was crucial for identifying professional development opportunities that prepared her to "hone various skills, including conflict management and negotiations."
While every mentor-mentee relationship is unique, here are some of the benefits of having a mentor:
- Skill development: Mentors can help you pinpoint the leadership skills that employers value most and learn how to develop them.
- Networking: A mentor can introduce you to leaders in organizations and other industry connections that can improve your development and future opportunities.
- Support: Your journey into leadership will include obstacles and challenges that a mentor can help you manage and overcome.
- Feedback: Mentors can provide constructive feedback to help you build on your strengths and address your growth areas.
What to look for in a leadership mentor
Candor
Mentors who are honest and candid in their evaluations can help you identify the areas where you can grow. Candor ensures that your mentor doesn't withhold helpful information out of concern for your feelings. This openness can also help you develop self-awareness, a valuable skill for any leader.
As Dr. Gutierrez says, "Constructive feedback is a game changer — it can mean the difference between stagnation and advancement."
Emotional intelligence
A mentor with emotional intelligence can read and understand your emotions and guide you in a way that you may need most. This tailored approach can help you build resilience and strengthen your connection with your mentor. Emotionally intelligent mentors can also help you navigate difficult conversations and interpersonal dynamics.
Encouragement
Providing encouragement in the right way and at the right time is a valuable skill that a leadership mentor can use to help get you through your most complex challenges.
“Getting to the top is no easy feat," says Dr. Gutierrez. "There are tough lessons along the way and it makes a difference to have a mentor who can provide encouragement when one feels defeated."
Expertise
Some of the best guidance comes from lived experience. Mentors who have made the leadership journey themselves and know your industry can help you avoid common pitfalls and take advantage of opportunities. Learning from the experience of others can help accelerate your growth.
Rapport
The rapport you build with your mentor directly impacts the quality of your relationship. Clear communication can make it easier to share and receive advice and feedback. Your rapport will also affect the level of individualized support you receive from your mentor, which could determine how much you benefit from the relationship.
Where to find a leadership mentor
You can find a leadership mentor through many channels. Dr. Gutierrez found a mentor in her workplace, but you can find one at school through a faculty member or a college alumnus. Professional organizations and industry networking events also offer the chance to meet potential mentors.
Additionally, you might consider reaching out to leaders in your field that you follow and respect.
To start a potential mentoring relationship:
- Introduce yourself.
- Explain why you admire them.
- Ask if they would be willing to offer you advice or guidance.