How to Secure a Mentor & Why You Need One in 2024

Ever heard that phrase about speed and distance? Something like, "Go fast, go alone; go far, go with a team"? Let's delve into that.

One of my most impactful lessons came from a mentor who emphasized discernment. Amid the numerous people who've influenced my career, a mentor from Score NYC, where I pursued structured guidance, shared this wisdom: "If you're helping everyone, you're helping no one." Their point was clear: while striving to save the world, there's a specific group seeking your unique inspiration, representation, and assurance that their dreams are both real and achievable. Another mentor of mine? Taught me how to leverage my skills and turn it to income - taught me how to hustle and muster up the confidence to approach any person.

Why stress the importance of mentors? Why seek one out? Why advocate for mentorship not only in tough career moments but also during success? Mentorship traverses all career domains. Someone out there has walked the path you're eyeing, and each of us holds insights to share with the next person.

As I age, I see our collective gift to the world—a varied perspective crafted from our lived experiences.

Why now? Why in 2024? 

New years often prompt reflection, ideation, and action. It's when we craft goal lists, setting measurable benchmarks for the year.

So, my advice? How do you find the right mentor?

• First, outline where you aim to go and who's already there. Jot down five destinations or entities—providing flexibility in case plans shift. Be it companies or clients, make it tangible.
• Then, research. Scout for individuals in roles or industries aligning with your goals. Google, social media, especially LinkedIn, can be gold mines.
• Lastly, consider your uniqueness. Whether from belonging to a marginalized group or your individual traits, they define you. Make a list and filter your search based on these specifics.

My take? Know what you need and what you bring before seeking a mentor.

Ready for a mentor? Ask yourself:

• Do I have time and commitment to honor their advice?
• What value can I offer? Mentorship should benefit both parties.
• Emotionally, am I open to critique or more in need of a sounding board? 

Identifying these aspects sets the stage for a fruitful mentorship, and establishes intentions and boundaries. Once you’ve done that, get your why together. Why are you looking for a mentor? And, why now? Develop your thoughts and/or pitch before reaching out. 

Consider the potential benefits of joining a professional organization pertinent to your field or participating in networking events. Personally, I spent the last few weeks in December looking ahead at ‘24 and the conferences and networking events I wanted to be a part of and writing their dates down, along with a few intentions for attending each. Already on the list? SXSW and Afrotech. My intentions? Align myself with like-minded people in the industry to bring visibility to my work and nonprofit. 

Mentorship is powerful. Take the lead in your mentorship by initiating the first meeting—be it a casual chat or video call—to gauge compatibility. Beyond work discussions, connect genuinely. Show gratitude afterward, and maintain the connection by updating your progress and offering help, appreciating their guidance.

The key gem I can share is to cherish and foster your mentorship connections. Above all, practicing gratitude at every step will unlock even greater possibilities.

Having trouble finding a mentor? Take a look at these resources to get started:

• Photography Creatives: Looking to pursue a role as a photographer, photo editor, producer, retoucher, art/creative/art director, apply for our Free Juice University mentorship program, or check out Women Photograph mentorship program
• POC Creative? Join the Hue You Know network and Where Are All the Black Designers
• Men of Color, check out Joey Bada$$ ' Impact Mentorship Program
• Women of Color, check out Unlock Her Potential
• Need business or financial advice? Score NYC or J.P. Morgan Wealth Management Financial Mentor
• General mentorship: MentorCruise
• Life Coach more fitting? Check out Thumbtack 
• Leverage hashtags! Using your fave social media platform - search for specified professionals that align with your interest and geographic location (ex: #HoustonPhotographer or #NYCScienceProfessor)

Have another specific niche? Let me know and I am happy to help research. For more on my mentoring journey, check out my latest blog post on Substack.

Happy mentoring!