How to Find a Mentor
Before you strike out and look for a mentor, make sure you are clear on why you want and need one. Many people are ready willing and able to help, but the ones who will be good mentors will want to know that you have a clear agenda or need and thatyou are ready to work on it.
When you can clearly communicate your goals, you are ready to find the right person to help you. If your company has a mentoring program that is a great place to start. If they don’t, you can consider professionals in your industry, people you may have met through associations or networking events. Don’t rule out your neighbors or relatives if they are successfully experienced in the areas you feel you need help with.
When you approach your choice of mentor, treat your presentation of the idea as a conversation about your challenges and your desires to excel. Presenting both will allow that person to experience your sincerity, and know that you are good a good mentoring candidate. They may even begin to offer ideas on approaching your challenges before you ask for their help. One reason you may be refused is the mentor’s lack of time. If you can define how much time you are asking for, it might make the difference. A reputable actuarial recruiter can also offer you perspective on industry trends and your professional goals. A good recruiter is one mentoring relationship that can last for your entire career.
