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Writer's pictureKaren Elders

I’m a recent grad, why do I need a mentor?

Mentorship is important because it provides an objective perspective on your career. A good mentor can be a confidential sounding board and cheerleader. It's important for mentorship to be consistent or have a somewhat regular schedule to be successful. For young professionals, a mentor can also be a guide around understanding career culture and etiquette. A mentor can be found within your current company or within the industry you’re working in.


Mentorships and why they're important!

If you're just starting a new job it can feel hard to find a mentor within the company but as you get acclimated be aware of people who give you a little extra time and advice on projects - keep a list of them and then don't be afraid to ask if they'd be willing to have a 10-15 minute phone call, coffee, or Zoom chat to help you get a little better perspective on the company. Especially if you have only been a remote employee. If there is someone outside of your department you think might be a good mentor, ask them if they can spare a few minutes. Explain that you're trying to expand the people you interact with and your understanding of the company as a whole.


Another option is to seek out an Industry mentor outside of your company. Leverage your existing network to get a feel of who might be open to being a mentor. Essentially, you're killing two birds by networking and finding a mentor at the same time. Asking for informational interviews is a good starting point. To find someone that you're comfortable speaking openly with may take a few tries. Starting with someone in your alumni network that is in the same industry is a great place to start - they're usually the most open to connecting. It's important to have the confidence to put yourself out there and find someone who can be instrumental in growing your career. Having a couple of mentors that are at different stages of their careers is also a good strategy.


Be aware of your mentor's time. Be organized and focused with your requests and questions. Never take your mentor's time for granted, always write a thoughtful thank you note. A mentor can be a link to an actual job so show them that you are polished and professional. They can be a great mentor and your biggest advocate. Even if they are a personal connection, keep the relationship on a professional level when you're talking about your career. Present yourself in the most professional light. Don't let your guard down.


For more information on how Launch Career Strategies can help you please call us at

203-561-8896


By Karen Elders, Host of Top of the Pile podcast and Co-Founder, Launch Career Strategies



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