As a newbie, sometimes getting into a new path/field on your own without any guidance and direction can be frustrating. This is why you need to get someone to mentor you when starting anew in an area that you have little or no knowledge of.  ‘

Why do you need a mentor?

The aim of getting a mentor is to have someone experienced and knowledgeable in the new field that you want to venture into. 

This person will take time out of their busy schedule to lead and guide you through the right path to succeeding in that field/career. 

Who is a Mentor?

A mentor is someone experienced and knowledgeable in a particular field who is capable of teaching and coaching people who are looking forward to starting a career in that same field.

A mentor can offer help, advice, resources and support to mentee (s) who look up to them to ensure that they have a smooth experience navigating through the new career. 

Why are Mentors Important For Your Career? 

Having a mentor who is readily available to help you through the journey of standing firm in your career is such a blessing that you should not joke with. 

You need a mentor willing to invest in you through teaching and supporting you throughout your career journey. 

Without saying much, these are why having a mentor for your career is necessary.

• Mentors make onboarding into a new career path easy and smooth for you because they will be there to guide and teach you what to do so that you have a successful career.
• Mentors can stand as an advocate or referrals for you. Here they can help you land your first job or gig by telling other people how good you are in your field. 
• Mentors can help you answer some questions you have that might be confusing about your career.

What do you have to Look For in a Mentor?

If you are looking forward to getting a mentor for yourself, there are certain qualities that the person should possess. 

Remember, good characteristics will determine if the person will be a great mentor. 

If you don’t know about the qualities to watch out for in an ideal mentor. Well, here is a list of notable qualities that any good mentor should possess;

• Intelligence and knowledge.
• Availability to make out time for mentees.
• Ability to listen and give genuine feedback when necessary. 
• Honesty and integrity.
• Passion for growth.
• Ability to network and source resources.

What do you need to do to get someone to be your mentor? 

To get someone to be your mentor, you have to prove that you are worthy of a mentee who is willing and ready to be taught and learn all there is to learn in your field. 

If you have to get a great mentor, there are some steps that you need to take to get this done. 

Here are what can help you get a good mentor;

• You need to start researching and identifying the suitable type of mentor that aligns with your career goals.

• After making up your mind about the right mentor, the next step is to reach out to them and ask them to be your mentor. In reaching out to them, you can call them or send them an SMS message to properly ask them if they are available and willing to become your mentor. Remember to include your intentions and expectations in your request.

• You need to show & confirm your willingness and eagerness to be a mentee. This will help your intended mentor to understand that they won't be wasting their time, resources and knowledge if they take their chances on you. 

• You have to be respectful towards your mentors. This means that you have to be humble and selfless if you want to learn. 

Remember, if you fail to do any of these, then there are high chances that you might end up not getting someone to be your mentor. Always put in the effort when looking for a mentor. 

The hard part of getting a mentor is the reaching out stage. This is because if you have to take your time to pen down compelling words, that will get the person to be interested in you.  

Failure to do so will be hard to get them to be your mentor. 

To guide you through the stage. We at SmartSMSSolutions are here to assist you to pen down compelling messages that you can send to your intended mentor (s)  through SMS that will boost your chances of getting mentored by them. Check out how we can make that happen over here.