How to find a mentor

We are here for all your mentoring needs but if you do want to go it alone here is a whole heap of tips to help you find a mentor!

Mentorship is an incredibly valuable resource for personal and professional growth, one that many don’t harness soon enough in their career. A mentor can offer guidance, support, and encouragement as you navigate your career path, but finding the right mentor can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect mentor:

1.            Know what you're looking for

Before you start your search, identify the skills, knowledge, and experience you want in a mentor. This will help you narrow down your search and find someone who can truly help you. Consider your long-term goals and what type of mentorship will be most beneficial for achieving those goals. Knowing what you're looking for will also help you approach potential mentors with a clear idea of what you hope to gain from the relationship. We ask for this information early on in the sign-up process for FLISS!

2.            Look within your network

Start by looking within your professional network. You may already know someone who could be a great mentor. Reach out to colleagues, former professors, or people you have met at conferences or industry events. Consider people you admire and respect for their knowledge and experience. You may also want to ask for recommendations from colleagues or friends who work in your field.

3.            Attend industry events

Attend industry events and conferences to meet people who are knowledgeable and experienced in your field. Take advantage of networking opportunities and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone you admire. Ask for their business card or contact information and follow up with them after the event. This can be a great way to start building a relationship with a potential mentor.

4.            Use online resources

There are many online resources available for finding a mentor. There are programs specifically designed for young women in science and engineering, like FLISS. Look for online communities or forums related to your field and participate in discussions. This can be a great way to connect with people who share your interests and find potential mentors.

5.            Reach out to potential mentors

Don't be afraid to reach out to someone you admire and ask if they would be willing to mentor you. Be respectful of their time and make it clear that you value their expertise. Consider sending a brief email introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in their mentorship. Be specific about what you hope to gain from the relationship and why you think they would be a good fit as a mentor.

6.            Be open to feedback

A good mentor will challenge you and give you honest feedback. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity to grow. Don't be defensive and take the feedback as a learning opportunity. Be receptive to new ideas and approaches and use your mentor's feedback to improve your skills and knowledge.

7.            Establish clear expectations

Once you have found a mentor, it's important to establish clear expectations for the relationship. This includes the frequency and type of communication, the length of the mentorship, and what you hope to achieve. It's also important to establish boundaries and respect your mentor's time and expertise. Be clear about what you expect from the relationship and make sure your mentor is on the same page. FLISS has a robust onboarding scheme designed to inform our network what ‘good mentoring’ looks like.

8.            Be proactive

Mentorship is a two-way street, and it's important to be proactive in the relationship. Take initiative and ask for feedback or guidance when you need it. Don't be afraid to ask for additional resources or connections that can help you achieve your goals. Be respectful of your mentor's time and expertise, but also be proactive in pursuing your own growth and development.

9.            Keep in touch

Even after your mentorship has ended, it's important to maintain the relationship. Keep in touch with your mentor and update them on your progress and achievements. Consider inviting them to speak at an event or writing a testimonial for them.