Mentorship for Women: Finding and Working with Mentors to Accelerate Career Development

Written By Allison Mathews

A mentor can be a valuable asset in your career journey, offering guidance, support, and insights that can help you navigate challenges and achieve your goals.

Here's how to find and work effectively with a mentor:

1. Identify your needs and goals:

  • What do you hope to achieve through mentorship? Knowing your goals helps you identify the right mentor for your specific needs.

2. Seek mentors in your field:

  • Look for individuals who have achieved success in your desired career path. Consider reaching out to former professors, colleagues, or industry experts.

3. Leverage professional networks and organizations:

  • Many organizations offer mentorship programs or can connect you with potential mentors within your field.

4. Be proactive and reach out:

  • Don't wait for a mentor to find you. Research potential mentors, express your interest, and propose specific ways you would benefit from their guidance.

5. Establish expectations and goals:

  • Have clear communication about your expectations and goals with your mentor. Schedule regular meetings and set specific objectives for each session.

6. Be prepared and open to feedback:

  • Come to your meetings with questions and topics for discussion. Be receptive to feedback and willing to implement suggestions.

7. Show appreciation and build the relationship:

  • Express your gratitude for your mentor's time and support. Nurture the relationship by staying in touch, updating them on your progress, and offering your own assistance when possible.

Mentorship is a two-way street. By being proactive, prepared, and appreciative, you can maximize the benefits of your mentorship and accelerate your career development.

Additional Resources:

Allison Mathews

Dr. Allison Mathews specializes in integrating technology (web and app design, human centered design, UX research), social marketing, strategic partnerships and measurement and data analysis to achieve and track KPIs, advance the triple bottom line, and improve longterm impact.

Specialties: human centered design, health equity, DEI, philanthropy, community engagement, organizational capacity building, social marketing, crowdsourcing

http://www.drallisonmathews.com
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