After all this talk about how useful a mentor can be for a mentee, it is important that we touch on how helpful the relationship can be to the mentor himself (or herself). Successful individuals from all walks of life would be appropriate mentors for someone, somewhere, should they choose to serve in this manner.
Even if you've only been in business for a few years, if you have seen your way through trials and triumphs and are committed to sharing the lessons you've learned along the way, you'd make someone a good mentor. A willingness to give back to the business community through your insights and expertise will help everyone involved. Not only will you have the enjoyment of knowing you helped someone else up the somewhat steep trail to a successful business endeavor, you may learn something from them along the way as well.
If you're considering becoming a mentor to an "up-and-comer", there are several ways to do so.
- Participate in the SCORE or other SBA-affiliated mentor-protege programs.
- Offer your services as a mentor to someone you meet at your local Chamber of Commerce meetings.
- Visit the guidance counselors of high schools and/or colleges near you to offer your services to young entrepreneurs.
- Look into Advance Mentoring's free registry program for mentors/mentees.
Don't forget to take the time to think about what you can contribute and how much time you are able to allot to your mentee. It is much more appropriate to say no to someone who is asking too much up front than it is to "dump" them when you realize the commitment creates too much conflict in your own work/life balance.
Once you've chosen a protege (or they've chosen you), sit back, brainstorm, and enjoy the business-building ride. You may well come away with a great new friend or help a colleague create an incredible opportunity with their small business.
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