A mentor serves as your very own compass. 

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They offer direction and wisdom to lead you down the right path. They’re someone to check in with. 

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Mentors can lend a helping hand because they’ve been through it all before, or at least been here long enough to see others do it.

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But finding the right guide can seem challenging.

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“If this person is so important, how can I be certain they’re the one?”

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Here are seven traits to look for in a mentor, plus the steps you can take to make sure they possess them.

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1. Relevant experience and expertise 

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Look for mentors who have achieved success in your area of interest. Whatever “success” means for your field.

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Research their background, career trajectory, and accomplishments. 

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Find out about any challenges similar to yours they’ve faced and how they’ve overcome them.

How to make sure: Ask your potential mentor about specific projects or experiences that confirm their expertise. Any relevant information that relates to your goals.

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2. Effective communication skills

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Communication is the base of any mentorship.

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How can you be mentored by someone you can’t understand?

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Look for skilled listeners who can provide clear, constructive feedback. 

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During your interactions, carefully consider if their communication style aligns with what you’re searching for. 

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How to make sure: Have a trial conversation with your potential mentor to gauge their ability to express themselves and offer guidance.

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3. Empathy and understanding

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A good mentor should be able to understand what you go through and care about it.

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Find someone who shows genuine interest in your growth and well-being.

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Notice whether they try to get to the root of your situation and actively listen to your concerns.

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How to make sure: Share a personal challenge with your potential mentor and see how they respond. Are they empathetic and supportive, or dismissive and judgmental?

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4. Commitment and availability

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Ensure your mentor is committed to investing time and effort in your development.

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Talk about your expectations regarding meeting frequency, availability, and responsiveness.

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Seek mentors who prioritize your relationship and dedicate time to your growth.

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How to make sure: Be upfront about the frequency and duration of meetings. Check out how they respond and confirm that you’re aligned.

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5. Positive role model

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Your mentor should possess the qualities you aspire to have. 

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Even if they’re not exactly the kind of person you want to be, they should have something you admire.

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Integrity. Professionalism. Resilience. Growth mindset.

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How to make sure: Ask your potential mentor about their experiences or decisions. Are they someone you look up to? Reflect on the qualities you admire in them.

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6. Constructive criticism and feedback

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The right mentor provides honest feedback and actionable advice for you to improve. 

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Look for a mentor who challenges you to grow and identifies areas for development.

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They should make you doubt and stumble, but always from a place of respect to help you learn from mistakes. 

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How to make sure: Request feedback on a specific project and pay attention to your potential mentor's ability to provide constructive criticism. Are their suggestions clear, relevant, and actionable?

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7. Supportive and encouraging

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A supportive mentor should provide encouragement and fuel to overcome obstacles.

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Your mentor needs to believe in your potential and celebrate your achievements.

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And, in challenging times, offer encouragement that motivates you to hold on. The positive influence everyone needs to face hardships.

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How to make sure: Share your goals and aspirations with your potential mentor and check their enthusiasm and support. Do they offer positivity and guidance to help you achieve your objectives?

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Does the perfect mentor exist?

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Probably not.

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It’s tough to find the right fit in every category (as with any relationship).

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But it all boils down to looking for someone you trust, look up to, and can interact with freely.

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Make sure to trust your gut. You can usually tell if you vibe with a person from the get-go.

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And pick responsibly. Your mentor is there to help take you to the next level, whatever that means for you.

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For more insights on mentorship, relationships, and leadership, check out this week’s episode of TOP CMO with Butcherbox’s former CMO.

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Ever thought about creating your own thought leadership content? At TOP Thought Leader, we amplify new and established voices so they can become pioneers of their generation. Get in touch with us and embark on your journey!