How do you feel about asking for favors? If you are like most people you might not want to impose or assume that people don’t have time for you. Now flip the scenario. What if someone comes to you and asks you for a favor? How often is your response to think that this person is imposing or taking up too much of your time?
Not often, right?
That’s where this week’s tip comes in. Ask for help. Seek guidance from others. There might be a mentor waiting on the other side of that ask.
In my experience working in the corporate and non-profit sectors, I’ve found that fellow associates and senior leaders are open to sharing advice and providing guidance. A networking meeting provides the person giving the counsel an opportunity to highlight their career journey, both the good and the bad. In our heart of hearts, many of us want to be teachers. A networking meeting is simply a career lecture in a one-to-one format.
By putting yourself out there and asking for help, you might uncover mentorship opportunities. A networking meeting might lead to a natural bond that you would like to foster. Similar to blind dates, it’s important to know how to ask the right questions, and if the vibe is right, to take the relationship to the next step.
After being asked dozens of times to match people with mentors, I put the matchmaking in their hands. By helping people examine what help they need and how a mentor might fill that gap, I’ve taught the mentees how to fish. I’ve created helpful guides to help you think about your mentorship needs and a discussion framework for initial mentoring meetings. Download them today. If you are a mentor, don’t hesitate to ask your mentees to give them a try.
Do you struggle with asking for help? Does asking for a mentor bring up feelings of nervousness? If so, reach out to me. I help people uncover their network gaps and devise a plan of action. I’d love to open your eyes to the possibilities of letting people into your life – whether for a single coffee or a long-term mentorship.
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