Navigating the Journey to Find Your Business Mentor

As an entrepreneur, finding the right business mentor can be the difference between success and failure. I've met many who have guided me along the way, recognizing the value they could offer me. At the same time, some mentors found me and offered their help when I least expected it. The best advice I ever received came from a simple yet profound statement made by an HP salesperson: ‘You are a diamond in the rough but you need seasoning via different jobs and better…’

The Role of Entrepreneur Incubators

One of the paths I took to finding my mentor was through participating in an entrepreneur incubator. These programs often provide mentoring as part of their support services, which can be a fantastic starting point. If you're interested in finding mentorship through this route, you can certainly check around to see if such opportunities are available in your area. I am currently business mentoring a few individuals who are at various stages of their own entrepreneurial journeys, and I believe I found them via Lawrence.

Learning from Authors and Influencers

Another important source of knowledge and guidance can come from authors who have written extensively on your area of interest. For example, I find value in the Guerrilla Marketing series by Jay Levinson, and I use Seth Godin as a mentor for his insights on marketing and business strategy. Following a group of authors and speakers who share your passions can provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Always take advantage of the opportunity to interview people you encounter, as it can lead to a fruitful mentor relationship.

The Key to Attracting a Mentor

Finding a mentor is easier when you're actively engaged in the activities related to your goals and objectives. In my experience, your mentor will eventually find you, and it doesn't happen any other way. The process is simple: get out there, engage in your community, show up, and shake hands. Everyday is an opportunity to connect with potential mentors.

A Personal Story

A quick story illustrates the power of mentoring: I visited a prominent venture capitalist to seek advice on how to assemble a business plan. Over a period of about 3 months, we met for several one-hour sessions. During these sessions, two magical things happened. First, this man began mentoring me without my explicitly asking. Second, through our close interaction, he developed a positive opinion of me, which led to him offering startup funding. This is a testament to the fact that successful people often willingly assist those who are genuinely striving towards success.

The key takeaway is that while it is human nature to help those who deserve it, not necessarily those who need it, you must strive to earn the opportunity to be mentored.

Whether it's through an incubator, an author, or a personal connection, finding and nurturing a business mentor can be one of the most powerful assets you can have in your entrepreneurial journey.