Mentors and You

By Bruce Lacroix © 2010

Bruce Lacroix is a middle-aged triathlete, small business & tourism consultant, speaker and writer. He lives in Nelson, BC, and has clients in Canada and the Caribbean. Bruce can be reached at: blacroix@shaw.ca

A mentor is someone you know, whose opinion you trust, who you can ask for advice.

In Greek mythology, Mentor was the son of Alcumus and, in his old age, a friend of Odysseus. When Odysseus left for the Trojan War he placed Mentor in charge of his son, Telemachus, and of his palace. This is where we get the word “mentor” from: a trusted friend, counselor or teacher, usually a more experienced person.

Having mentors increases your chances of business success.

Mentorship establishes a working relationship between two people in which one person teaches, counsels and inspires the other through the benefit of their knowledge and experience.

Mentors can make a difference! Many young entrepreneurs have new ideas and determination, but sometimes lack some of the necessary ingredients to launch a successful career.

Mentorship broadens horizons and offers direction to those just starting out.

Mentorship also provides knowledge, confidence, friendship and strength in the community.

Who do you admire and respect? Who has already been a role model for you? Is there someone who has already been helpful to you on a smaller scale that might be willing to formalize a more indepth relationship?

The following types of people could be mentors for you: People in your community, distant relatives, friends of the family, former bosses or professors, people you meet through professional associations or networking groups, or even online social networks.

Mentors do not have to live in your community. They can help you via phone or e-mail if you cannot meet with them in person. And you don’t pay mentors: they mentor you because they like and respect you.

Think about who you would want as a mentor. Then give them a call or an e-mail. Let them know that you are considering asking them if they would be a mentor for you. Tell them why you are considering them, and that you would not be bugging them every day, just occasionally with a question or problem as they pop up. If they say yes, then send them a nice Thank You card. Happy Mentoring!