As the saying goes, “it’s not about what you know, it’s about who you know.” Often times this can dictate the route of our endeavors, career, and success. Making connections and establishing mentorship is pivotal in enhancing the growth of an individual as well as creating a support system. Perhaps we might feel odd or unsure of how to initiate becoming a mentee to someone we highly regard, but we shouldn’t shy from inquiring, especially being that the possible outcome outweighs rejection. Mentorship is something that most, if not all, people ought to seek as a part of their personal and professional progression.

Here are some reasons why mentorship is so valuable and to be implemented:

• Information & Knowledge

• “Been there, done that.” A mentor shares their knowledge & information with a mentee because well frankly, that’s the point—  to give back and assist those who want and need this type of resource. Their wisdom from experiencing life itself is a treasure to hold on to because although everyone’s journey differs, experiences can parallel. 

• Stimulation 

• Mentors challenge us and stimulate us to think outside the box and make other perspectives accessible. 

• Improvement & Growth

• Mentors offer tough love when it comes down to it. Constructive criticism is necessary for us to grow and improve. 

• Discipline 

• A mentor’s success is often the cause of constant effort and discipline. At times we can hit a slump in our work ethic, but our mentors can offer an example of the structure we need to continue reaching milestones. 

• Networking Opportunities 

• As people who are already established professionals, they most likely know many other established professionals they can possibly connect you with. Being recommended by a mentor can go a very long way.

• Encouragement & Guidance

• At its core, the essence of a mentor is to offer encouragement and guidance to their mentees. They have most likely experienced similar situations, and use their personal experience as an opportunity to ease what you might be going through in the moment. 

You can seek mentorship with your professors, superiors at internships, in the workplace, and through networking connections as well. Mentorship is a priceless collaboration that we should all get the chance to be a part of, the support and influence it creates makes a major impact on those involved— establishing the start of a positive cycle we can pass down for generations to come.