MUST-HAVE MENTORS (AND HOW TO FIND THEM) JULIA PITLYK AS A YOUNG PROFESSIONAL, mentors are key for getting the guidance you need to grow in your career. But not all mentors are the same, and you’ll need more than one mentor type to get a well-rounded perspective on your career. Check out the must-have mentor types below, where to find them and what to focus on during your time together.
THE DREAM JOB PROFESSIONAL WHO THEY ARE: This is the most obvious type of mentor – someone who is in the job or industry of your dreams. In your eyes, this person has “made it” and is achieving all of your personal #careergoals. HOW TO FIND THEM: Use LinkedIn to find professionals who have the job title or employer you aspire to have on your resume and reach out for an informational interview. Also, ask your advisor if they have any personal or professional connections that could help you find your dream job mentor. WHAT TO FOCUS ON: With this mentor, focus on understanding how they navigated their early career, including their education and entry-level jobs. Also ask about the top challenges and opportunities they face in their role today to help shape your professional point-of-view.
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THE ENTRY-LEVEL PROFESSIONAL WHO THEY ARE: This mentor may be an entry-level employee in a relevant department of your dream company, a college senior getting a degree in your area of interest or even a younger DECA alumn from your chapter. HOW TO FIND THEM: Search recent alumni from your high school or degree program, or even ask your dream job mentor to refer someone starting out in their organization. WHAT TO FOCUS ON: This mentor will give you a fresh perspective on what it’s like to start out in your dream career. Talk to this mentor about how they landed their current role, including their formal education and training. Also, discuss the hiring process in the industry, including job application, resume and interviewing tips.
