In order to apply for the FLY Mentoring Program, you must submit 2-3 names of potential mentors. If you are having trouble finding a mentor, read ahead!
Before even having a mentor in mind, take time to read about the mentorship process and think about what you would like to achieve through this relationship. Some questions you might contemplate are:
- What career goals would you like to achieve?
- What are the skills you want to develop?
- What type of organizational knowledge do you want to know?
- What new partnerships and alliances are you hoping to make?
Taking notes on the questions above will help you formulate the kind of mentor and the sort of mentoring relationship you are seeking for yourself. Review your thoughts and your notes – now you have a framework through which to find the right mentor for you.
For a professional development-driven mentoring relationship, think of individuals who have the career path with work experience you would envision for yourself. Spend some time researching potential mentors – perhaps on LinkedIn or through networking – you never know who knows who, so activate your own network. Remember, your mentor should not be someone you know well or someone who is your direct or indirect supervisor. You should not expect your mentor to secure your next promotion or ensure your short-term career change. Mentors are there to support and advise you, but it is up to you to achieve your goals.
If you are still having trouble finding a mentor, try asking your manager or your HR Generalist for recommendations. Reach out to people you know in different contexts across campus. Use your answers to the questions above as a framework for discussion. Don’t be afraid to submit the name of someone who you’ve never met- most people are very flattered when asked to be a mentor!