Lab professionals are taking the time to learn and develop their skills both during and after work hours. However, this learning takes longer when you do not have the right network in place to ask for guidance and get questions answered. That is why mentorship is so important. Mentors can provide invaluable growth opportunities. Before you begin your search for a mentor, here are a few things to consider:
REACH OUT
You can reach out to individuals or groups both inside and/or outside of your workplace. Begin connecting with those on internal committees or individuals who are on a career path you aspire to. By reaching out to a new network, you are going to learn about diverse work environments, opportunities and problems that are different from where you work. Be deliberate about connecting; this is an important piece to your professional development. Always think about what you can add to the conversation.
ATTEND EVENTS
It could be as simple as attending conferences, local networking events, or learning sessions either inside or outside of your workplace. At these events, get out of your comfort zone and chat with individuals who you’ve never met before. You will be able to meet a variety of professions, who can then be added to your network of industry professionals.
CREATE A NETWORK
You need to find or create a group of people that will help enhance your professional growth. Make it your priority to connect with your network, so that you are continuously fostering these connections. Take the time to speak to individuals with a wide variety of experiences and backgrounds; do not limit it to only those who have the same level of career experience. For instance, connect with sales representatives as they know trends in the industry, organizational changes, who is hiring, etc. Once you find a mentor, they can also help you expand your network.
PICK A MENTOR BASED ON YOUR CAREER GOALS
Your mentor should be someone you naturally gravitate towards. The question you should ask yourself is: Do I want to strive for similar behaviours and management style? The individual’s position also matters because you may want someone who has more career experience.
TAKE THE INITIATIVE
If you would like to work with a specific individual make sure to reach out and follow-up after you meet. You need to make yourself stand out and show that you are interested in keeping the conversation going.
All in all, as a mentee, you are looking for the mentor that fits best with your career development and aspirations. It is up to you to uncover that for yourself before going into the conversation. The mentor will guide you but you need to share your goals. Take an active role in the mentoring relationship. Enjoy this invaluable experience!
(Review our Starting the Mentoring Relationship: A Checklist for Mentors and Mentees to better understand what falls under the role of mentor and mentee)