Wise Wednesdays - Getting A Mentor

Take it easy -- but take it.--Woody Guthrie

Finding a mentor or coach takes time. TBDC offers formal coaching/mentoring programs like our partnership with CYBF, loans for youth 34 years or younger, or if you’re on EI or on ODSP and want to start a business. Please visit our website for more information.

However, for the most part, one has to be creative in finding a mentor/coach on their own.

Here is an approach you can use:

1. Do your research. Find out who is successful in your industry. Learn about that person and their organization.

2. If possible get someone to introduce you to that person (someone who has a connection with him or her). If not then go to step 4.

3. Get to know them (i.e. don’t rush into asking about them being a mentor right away).

4. Tell them your story i.e. who you are and your business idea. Make sure to let them know you have a passionate drive to make this happen. Then let them know your intention in looking for a mentor or coach – ask if they know anyone who would be interested or if they would be interested in mentoring you.

5. Let them know what is involved. I recommend meeting them once every two weeks or once a month, in person or over the phone.

6. If they are not interested ask if you could take them out for lunch (or the very least for a coffee). Arrange a time. At the end of the meeting thank them and ask them if they know of anyone you could possibly connect with? At the very least you will have gained some valuable insight.

Where possible see if you can offer something that would interest them (i.e. email them an article on a topic that interests them). This also helps you stay in touch with them.

This takes time. Yet it can be the best investment of your time and energy.

Happy mentoring.

Cheers,

Dominik