I recently read a great article in
Forbes that highlights the challenges of finding the right fit when selecting a mentor. The article
Millennial Women Battle With Older, Unwanted Mentors raises a lot of issues that I have seen repeatedly in the accounting profession, and not just among women. The article mentions that many women in the boomer generation want to reach out to young female professionals, but their advice is often misinterpreted as nagging or dated. The generational gap between boomers and millennials is not unique to women, nor are the challenges of finding the right mentor. Rather than settle for a disappointing, dissatisfying mentoring relationship, here are some things to consider before pursuing a mentoring relationship:
- Don't assume you'll only need one mentor your entire professional life. During your career, you will likely have countless employers, job titles, and responsibilities. As you evolve as a professional, your mentoring needs should evolve as well. Early in your career, you may reach out to an immediate superior, such as a senior associate, or someone with whom you personally relate. But as your professional expertise grows, you will likely want to seek the advice of a more seasoned professional. It never hurts to expand your network, and you should always look to do so as you advance in your career. You can also find mentors beyond your coworkers. Professional organizations are a great place to network and meet people eager to share their wealth of knowledge and experience.
- The most successful mentoring relationships seem to evolve organically. While many companies have formal programs for matching up mentors and mentees, these arrangements may be superficial if you don't seem to click with the mentor with whom you are matched. If there are supervisors with whom you work well, or admire their management style, reach out to them for professional guidance. Even if they are not interested in a formal mentoring relationship, an occasional conversation about your professional development might grow into the type of mentoring guidance you need to maximize your potential.
- Mentoring should be a two-way relationship. Even if your mentor has decades of experience on you, don't discount the importance of what you have to offer. Younger professionals offer a fresh perspective on business, technology, and team work, among other areas. Don't be afraid to offer recommendations to your mentor, because every great professional appreciates the opportunity to grow.
