How to get the most value from your mentors

Having great mentors can be a life-changing experience. When you talk to some people, they can readily name their mentors and share how they have supported them on their journeys. A few years ago, I did not have mentors and did not know their value. Once I found my first mentor, I wanted to scream from a hilltop about how mentorship has helped me on my journey. Years later, I have multiple mentors, and I am thankful that I do.
 
In this blog post, we will explore how to get the most value from your mentors on your personal and professional development journey.
 
Starting point: What does mentorship mean?

• A person's mentor is someone who gives them help and advice over a period of time
• A mentor is someone whose life or work you value and admire, and whom you think might be a good guide
• Mentors provide guidance, advice, feedback, and support to the mentee, serving variously as role model, teacher, counselor, advisor, sponsor, advocate, and ally, depending on the specific goals and objectives negotiated with the mentee.

 
How to leverage your mentors
 
#1: Gain different perspectives
It helps to have someone who can help you see things a little differently in some life situations. Hearing how someone else views a particular situation you are in; can highlight something you might not have considered. You can see their perspective as a gift to you to help you increase your chances of succeeding.
 
Strategies to consider

• Ask for their point of view on a topic you are contemplating
• Listen to their opinions and decide what you want to act on

 
#2: Get Inspired and energized
When you think about the perfect mentors, think about people who inspire you to do more and take on new challenges. There is something powerful about having role models to whom you can look up. Seeing them accomplish remarkable things will serve as a source of motivation.
 
Strategies to consider

• Ask them to share their accomplishments with you
• Tell them how they inspire you

 
#3: Get feedback on your plans
Especially when you are planning a significant move in your life or career, it is especially important to have people with whom you can discuss your plans. They should be people with who you are comfortable sharing your ideas with and whose feedback you trust.
 
Strategies to consider

• Review your ideas and plans with them
• Ask for their feedback and suggestions

 
#4: Get support and encouragement
With all the magnificent work you are doing, it helps to get some positive reinforcement from your mentors. Knowing that you have people who are on your side and cheering you on feels incredibly good. You do not have to go on your journey alone. Let your mentors be there for you.
 
Strategies to consider

• Share your fears and concerns
• Accept their support

 
#5: Offer them something in return
The best relationships are the ones where all parties benefit from being in them. This is the same for mentorship relationships. It is important for you to not only receive support or advice from your mentors but also give them something of value. It could be in the form of providing them with your perspective, singing their praises, or helping them accomplish their own goals.
 
Strategies to consider

• Ask them what you can do for them
• Be ready to provide value as much as you receive

 
Final Thoughts: MC's Mentorship Journey
Having mentors in my personal and professional life has taught me a lot. They have supported me as I navigated some tough times in my life and have also been there to celebrate my successes. I have learned that we may need new mentors in different life phases and that mentors might look quite different than you expected.
 
Call to action

• Who are your mentors? Review your list of mentors or find new mentors
• How are you leveraging your mentors today? Utilize the mentors in your life
• Do you show your mentors how much you value them? Find a way to appreciate your mentors 

Great Resources
How to Find a Mentor Who Can Accelerate Your Career
10 Tips for Finding a Mentor—and Making the Relationship Count
The Right Mentor Can Change Your Career. Here's How to Find One
What’s the Right Way to Find a Mentor?
What Exactly Is the Mentor's Role? What Is the Mentee’s?