For the overworked entrepreneur and startup founder, mentorship can be a great way to get some extra help with your startup. Some of the best mentors are other entrepreneurs who have been where you are trying to go. But finding a good mentor is not always easy.
ContentsWhat is entrepreneur mentoring?#1 Target your search#2 Customize your request#3 Ask aroundNow, let's first explore the term entrepreneur mentoring .
Mentoring is a relationship between two people – in this case, a mentor and a mentee. The mentee receives advice from the mentor on how to improve their business and, in return, the mentee helps the mentor by sharing information or ideas.
The word "mentor" has often been used in business circles as shorthand for someone who gives advice or guidance. Entrepreneurial mentorships take this idea one step further by providing a structured relationship between someone who is already established in business and someone who is just getting started. Mentoring can benefit both parties:an experienced entrepreneur might find it helpful to ask someone else to review some of their ideas and help identify areas that could be improved. Someone just starting out has access to valuable information from someone with more experience
Here are some tips for finding an entrepreneurial mentor.
Choose someone who already has what you want. If your goal is to find a mentor who will help you grow an international business, don't waste time with someone who only operates locally. If you're a newbie entrepreneur looking for advice on cash flow management, find someone with experience in this area.
Once you have your goals in mind, adapt your approach so that it best suits your mentoring needs. For example, if you're trying to get in touch with a public figure and their assistant is screening emails, consider sending a letter addressed directly to that person. Or if your intended mentor is someone who is involved in many projects, consider offering a short proposal or outline of topics or questions that might be helpful to the person.
Know what type of mentor you need. Think about the role a mentor plays in your life:coach, cheerleader, or counselor. Do you need someone to allow you to take risks? Are you looking for feedback on a specific issue? Do you need advice on recruiting? Does anyone have any contacts that might be helpful as your business grows? Think about your needs and know
Tell people in your network (family, friends, and acquaintances) about those they know who have started a business or are currently running one successfully. If they can't direct you to someone they know personally, ask if they belong to any clubs or professional organizations where they could give a few introductions. If those efforts don't find anyone, broaden your search by searching online for local entrepreneurship or business organizations that offer mentorship programs or match mentors with budding entrepreneurs.
Asking for help can seem daunting at first, but it can be very beneficial in the long run, especially if you are just starting out with your business idea or trying to gain traction.
