Three common places to find a mentor (besides CYBF!)

Cathy Yeomans, Imagine Public Relations, White Rock, BC, imaginepr@telus.net

A mentor should be someone who exemplifies the traits and skills you want to embody – the “you” you want to become. When looking for a professional mentor, consider these places:

1. Join a professional association related to your business, or a business group such as your local Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade. Many of the people involved also used mentors and look forward to passing down the knowledge, expertise and help.
2. Don’t rule out the people in your own circle. This could be past professors or teachers, friends with connections, even local business owners that you interact with on a regular basis.
3. Volunteer in an area and industry that you want to excel in. Often, retired professionals continue to volunteer in their area of expertise to help their communities.

Through their advice and direction, mentors often help in advancing careers and businesses. They are also great at providing network opportunities and making the connections that will benefit you the most.  So look for the perfect “you” and go introduce yourself!