The word “mentor” refers to a person in our close personal or professional circle who we turn to for advice, guidance, and role-modeling purposes. The mentor relationship is loosely defined and means different things in different professional situations, but almost every healthy mentor-mentee connection is poised to help the mentee navigate the complexities of the professional world with the benefit of another person’s experience. Mentors may be more established and seasoned than their protégées, but the relationship can be initiated on either side. Some companies set up formal mentor relationships between their employees, and sometimes people make this connection entirely on their own.
Could you benefit from the guidance of a mentor as you face the challenges of the job search process? Maybe. But the benefit you gain and the channels you use to find a great mentor may vary depending on your circumstances.
The Value of a Mentor: You’ve Been on the Job Market for a While
You’ve been on the job market for several months and you’ve sent out dozens if not hundreds of applications. You’ve had a few interviews, but nothing has panned out so far. It may be time to head into your contact list and find someone who can offer you some formal guidance on a personal level.
But choose carefully. The person you need isn’t necessarily an expert in your field. She may have contacts, including the names and numbers of people who might want to hire you. But the mentor you really need is someone who can take a close look at your job search process and help you fix whatever you’re doing wrong (if anything). Your mentor’s expertise lies in her ability to get you working again. She may not be a hiring manager in your area, but she’s a job search pro. She’ll help you polish your resume and she’ll keep you on your feet and focused on days when the going gets rough.
The Value of a Mentor: You’re Entering the Job Market Right Now
Maybe you’ve been notified of an impending layoff. Or maybe you just walked out of your office this very day for the last time. Before you disappear over the horizon, make sure you complete one final task: Contact your mentor. Think over the years you’ve spent at this company. Who stands out as a competent, knowledgeable senior person who cares about you and your professional fate? If you can think of someone who fits this description, call her. See if she’s willing to stay in touch as you head off toward your next adventure. If so, try to meet with her once every few weeks to stay informed about changes and events in your industry. She may be able to help you identify the unique challenges, obstacles, and opportunities you face at this unexpected point in your career.
The Value of a Mentor: You’re Not Looking for a Job at the Moment
The best time to search for a mentor is when you’re heading into work every day with no specific plans to leave. An experienced senior colleague can meet with you on a regular basis to discuss the decisions you face and help you see them from every angle. Benefit from the wisdom of her experience and use her insights to keep your own goals on track.
For more help navigating the mentor relationship, contact the Dallas, TX job search professionals at Expert Staffing. We’ll give you the guidance you need to find a mentor you can trust.