It’s tough and exciting going things alone and starting your own business! But going it alone doesn’t mean that we don’t need the advice and guidance of a mentor or two. Someone who has “been there” and can bee a cheerleader and a teacher is an incredibly valuable part of our “team.” Where can you find great mentors?
You may be surprised, but mentors can be found everywhere. The important thing is to remain open and interested–like a student. If you go forth into the world acting like you already have all the answers and you can’t benefit from some mentoring, potential mentors will find you unapproachable and disinterested. While you may be “discovered” by someone who evolves into a valuable mentor, chances are, you’re going to have to the shopping and hunting yourself–and this means being open and ready to learn.
Professional groups and organizations, leads groups, or more experienced people in your business organization (if you are working in an independent sales or distributorship business) can be prime opportunities for finding mentors. But, you may also find mentors in more unlikely places–volunteer work, family members, neighbors–people who are already in your sphere of influence, but whom you haven’t considered as a business or personal mentor.
If you belong to a chamber of commerce, this can be a great place to find business mentors. You may also consider taking a business class or seeking our small business support opportunities in your community. Many of these are established with a main purpose of mentoring new and fledgling small businesses and entrepreneurs. Don’t be disheartened if someone you think is fabulous is unavailable or disinterested in serving as a mentor–you may still be able to learn from them from a distance and, as long as you remain open and eager to learn from those who have “gone before,” you’ll benefit from finding some terrific and valuable mentors (and maybe making some good friends along the way!)