New to Business? Find a Mentor

For new professionals, the business world can be overwhelming. If you are searching for guidance and advice, a mentor can be a valuable resource. The right business mentor can help you navigate your chosen profession, help you make strategic decisions to advance your career, and offer connections that will be of benefit in your current and future positions.

According to CNBC, small-business owners often make similar mistakes when they are just starting out. Common problems include taking on too many responsibilities, ignoring marketing, and not understanding the financial aspects of business. By finding a business mentor when you are just starting out, you'll have someone to go to with questions. A mentor's small-business advice can be instrumental in helping you avoid common pitfalls.

n order to reap the benefits of a business mentor, you must identify a person who has been in your shoes. Look for a professional who has a significant number of years experience in your industry and location. An experienced mentor will know the key players in your area, be aware of potential problem areas, and have a wealth of resources to direct you to. Most importantly, he or she must have the time and inclination to be a mentor; an unwilling mentor is unlikely to give you adequate guidance and small-business advice.

When it comes to finding the perfect business mentor, there's no need to stick to just one person. Instead, identify a different mentor for each area of business. If you aren't experienced in finances, for example, look for a mentor who can direct you towards the best financial advisors for your industry. Other mentors can be helpful in choosing technology, making corporate decisions, and directing manufacturing. By seeking out a team of mentors, you reduce the load on each person and get more specialized information.

For business professionals, it can be intimidating to start a new mentorship. Like any relationship, your connection to your mentor must be developed over time. To avoid a conflict of interests, it is crucial that you select a person whom you do not report to. That way, you can feel free to speak candidly about problems without worrying about repercussions. Open communication also builds trust, which is crucial in creating a long-lasting mentor relationship. The communication should go both ways¾your business mentor must be able to deliver specific advice with respect and candor.

Numerous resources are available to new professionals who are seeking mentors. The government runs a number of programs, including SCORE Mentors, small-business development centers (SBDCs), and women's business centers. Most programs are administrated through the Small Business Administration. Other places to find mentors include professional associations, personal industry contacts, and alumni associations.

For a new professional, a business mentor can be the difference between success and failure. By taking time to select a person who has succeeded in your line of work, you can create a relationship that will last throughout your career.

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