By : Uma Thana Balasingham


Some companies offer direct mentorship programs and some don’t. In this article, we explore a tried-and-tested formula and some top tips for women seeking mentors, enabling them to build strong and meaningful mentorship relationships.


Before seeking mentors, take the time to introspect on your goals and define what you want to achieve through mentorship i.e. getting that promotion, navigating a difficult conversation, improving your presentation skills, switching industries. Identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Having clarity on your goals will help you find mentors who can best support your journey.
2.Identify Potential Mentors:
Consider people within your network with whom you share a good rapport and respect. Look for individuals whose accomplishments and values align with your aspirations. These could be colleagues, senior executives, or even professionals outside your organization.
3.Start with a Genuine Request:
Approaching someone to be your mentor doesn't have to be intimidating. Begin by asking for a small amount of their time—perhaps no more than 30 minutes. Frame your request around seeking their advice in an area where you admire their expertise. For instance, you could say, "I have always admired your presentation and story-telling skills. May I ask for 30 minutes to get feedback and learn how you do it?" This approach demonstrates your respect for their time while showing a sincere interest in their guidance.
4.Show Appreciation and Take Action:
After your initial conversation, it's essential to follow up with your potential mentor and share the action steps or learnings you took away from the discussion. Mentors deeply value knowing that their insights were beneficial and had a positive impact. Express gratitude and share how their advice has influenced your decisions or actions. This strengthens the mentorship bond and showcases your commitment to growth.
5.Request Another Piece of Advice:
As your relationship with your potential mentor evolves positively, don't hesitate to ask for further guidance. Building a mentoring relationship is an organic process that develops over time. Requesting additional advice shows that you value their input and are invested in learning from them. Remember, mentorship is not about having one momentous conversation but a series of meaningful interactions that lead to growth.
6.Repeat. This Evolves into a Mentoring Relationship.
Effective mentorship relationships are nurtured through consistent communication. Follow up with your mentor and keep them updated on your progress and challenges. Your dedication to the process will demonstrate your commitment to self-improvement, which mentors will respect and appreciate.
Lastly, embrace a board of mentors! Diversity in mentorship can be invaluable. Seek mentors from various backgrounds, such as one within your chain of command, one outside your chain of command, and one from a different industry or field. Each mentor can provide unique perspectives and support.
Top Tips for Mentees:

Avoid the Direct "Will you be my mentor" Question

Asking someone to be your mentor directly can be overwhelming and put unnecessary pressure on both parties. Instead, focus on building a connection based on mutual respect and shared interests.

Respect Your Mentor's Time

Recognize that your mentor's time is valuable, so be mindful of the commitments you make. Prepare well for your interactions and ensure that you utilize their guidance effectively.

Embrace Feedback

View feedback as a gift—a valuable opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace constructive criticism and use it to refine your skills and strategies.

Build Trust​

Trust is the foundation of any successful mentorship relationship. Be open, honest, and authentic with your mentors. Show your dedication and willingness to put their advice into action.
"The most important mentoring I've had in my life hasn't always been formal. There are rarely moments where you officially declare someone your mentor and go schedule advice-getting time in your calendar. It's really just about developing relationships with individuals who you admire and can relate to"-- Melinda Gates here.​
Conclusion:
Mentorship is a powerful force that can drive women to achieve greatness in their personal and professional lives. By following the formula and adopting the key strategies and tips outlined in this article, women can confidently approach potential mentors and embark on a journey of growth and empowerment. Remember, mentorship is not just about formalities; it's about developing meaningful relationships with individuals you admire and respect, much like Melinda Gates wisely stated. So, take the leap, seek out mentors, and unlock the doors to a brighter, more successful future.
We are eager to hear about your personal experiences in seeking mentors within your workplaces. Have you encountered challenges or triumphs? What strategies have resonated with you the most? Your valuable feedback is instrumental in shaping a supportive community of empowered women so let’s continue this conversation at by clicking HERE where your voice can help build better workplaces for women.


Looking for more advice? Check out our latest post on mastering work-life integration.