5 Ways to Get the Most out of Your Mentor Relationship

Written by Nicole Beckley.

Mentors.  Time and again we’re told how important mentors can be in helping give advice and guidance as we make career decisions, negotiate job transitions, or start new ventures.  Mentors can provide the wisdom of someone who’s charted a similar path or shares similar passions.  But how exactly do you even start to find a mentor?

One of Women Communicators of Austin’s (WCA) signature programs is its Mentorship Program, which pairs dedicated WCA volunteer mentors with other members.  An exclusive members-only benefit, the program works to facilitate relationships between seasoned career professionals and mentees.

“Having a mentor can help you find a fresh perspective, think through your ideas and plans, prevent you from making mistakes, inspire you to start something new, or make your current work more meaningful,” explains Jane Baxter Lynn, a leader of WCA’s mentoring program.

Through utilizing WCA’s online system, those looking for mentorship can browse the profiles of potential mentors, read their biographies, and determine if they might be a good mentee fit.

For those who might be looking for general advice, fill out a General Request Form and a match can be made for you.

“Benefitting from others’ support and knowledge can change the course of your career,” Baxter Lynn says.  “No matter your age, stage of education, years of experience, career position, or your familiarity with other fields, you can and must continue to grow.”

So you have a mentor, now what?

As you develop your mentor relationship, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. The mentoring relationship works both ways. Even if you are in the role of “mentee” remember that you’re bringing a range of experiences and ideas to the table that can open up new conversations and opportunities with your mentor.  Learn from each other.

2. Outline your goals. Take stock of where you are and where you’d like to be.  A mentor can be of most help when you have a clear vision for what things you’re aiming to achieve.

3. Be aware of the time that the mentor is devoting. Successful professionals are always busy – when you meet or speak with your mentor set a clear goal for your time together and stay respectful of their time limitations.

4. Ask questions about future plans. In speaking with your mentor, think through how you might be helpful to them or work with them in the future.

5. Follow up and say thank you. At then end of your mentor sessions outline a few key action items and follow up with your mentor to let them know how things are progressing.  As they’re investing in you, they want to know the shape your journey is taking.  Also, a kind word of thanks, even just by email, lets them know how appreciated they are.

Experience the program for yourself.  If you are a WCA member and haven’t already, sign up to take advantage of WCA’s great mentorship resources. Learn more here.