These days, it seems like business owner is talking about finding a business mentor and the importance of having an experienced mentor. An entrepreneur mentor is essential when an entrepreneur is wondering how to scale a business. There are websites, blogs, podcasts, radio, and television programs popping up all around the globe talking about business mentoring programs and entrepreneurship mentoring, telling us why every entrepreneur needs a business mentor and how to find one in “6 easy steps.”
But not every entrepreneur mentor out there knows what they’re talking about, or has the experience to back up their premises. At Maui Mastermind, our team of advisors have personally scaled and sold over $2 billion of businesses. We have decades of experience planning, creating, and growing our own businesses, which means we are equipped with mentoring young entrepreneurs.
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We’ve spent years with our business mentors and mentees, helping each other learn, grow, and develop our businesses into thriving companies that can operate with little owner reliance. Our experience and knowledge put us in the industry’s top tier – and separate us from the pack.
In this article, we’re going to talk about how to find a business mentor, starting with what not to do, followed by a list of things you absolutely should do when searching for the right mentor.
Popular misconceptions about finding a business mentor
Let’s start by clearing up a couple of common fallacies about mentoring.
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Mentoring is the responsibility of the mentor
Obviously, mentors must shoulder a great deal of responsibility. It’s on us to provide a structured method for growth, get to know you and your business, and communicate in effective and inspiring ways.
However, if you’re not ready and willing to put in a substantial amount of effort, you’re not going to reap the benefits of any business mentoring program. It’s something you work on, not something that happens to you.
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It’s a mentor’s job to tell you what to do
Again, obviously, there will be times when a mentor will give you advice and tell you how he would play the hand that you’ve been dealt. But more than that, it’s a formal mentor’s job to listen to you, help provide you with the right tools, provide expert advice and tips to increase productivity to achieve your own business success. You’re still in control of your business, personal life, and decision-making process.
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Everyone will benefit from having a business mentor
It’s probably a strange thing to hear from a business coach, but the truth of the matter is, not every mentor relationship is effective. While I believe that every business owner has something to gain from finding an appropriate business mentor, coach, or advisor – everyone has different needs, personalities, and learning styles.
That’s why we think it’s in everyone’s best interest to start with a free consultation or mentoring session, with no obligation on either party. This way, there can be a fair and accurate assessment of whether the mentor and, the coaching program, will be a good fit.
Professional tips on how to find a business mentor
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, here are a few tips from the pros on how to find a good business mentor and how to make the most out of a business coaching program.
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Take the initiative
This goes for every stage of the mentoring process. From the moment you start searching to the first meeting to the second year – mentors appreciate a willingness to learn. It also helps them do their job when you respond honestly and accurately, provide them with everything they need to do their job and are actively participate in their coaching program. Before you start your mentoring service program, you should be able to answer the following questions:
- What specific goals are you looking to work toward?
- How would you like your mentor to help you?
- How often are you able to meet with your mentor? Once a week, once a month? & for how long?
- What will be your main form of communication?
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Don’t seek out validation
It’s a formal mentor’s job to provide an outside perspective to sharpen your ideas and decisions. They aren’t going to just idly sit back and tell you you’re doing a great job. They’re going to tell you when you’re wrong and when you’re right.
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Find someone you admire and respect
One of the best ways to keep yourself accountable is to find someone to hold you accountable. Employees often have a hard time being honest with those in charge. A good business mentor won’t have this issue. They aren’t invested in your company or project. Therefore their perspective and opinion are much more impartial.
If your mentor is someone you look up to, you’re much more likely to perform at a higher level, because you’ll be motivated to earn their respect.
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Networking & Former Internships
The key to finding a great mentor to help scale your career path is networking or using old internship connections. A successful business owner will have a mentor relationship with someone in a related business field or niche you are in.
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Commit to the process
This isn’t going to be a quick solution. It’s not about jumpstarting your business or achieving overnight success. A good business mentor is someone who is there for the long haul. They’re going to help your business grow sustainably, over time. They will provide you with resources and tools that will help you improve as a leader and strengthen your company.
Which leads us to number 6…
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Take full advantage of your mentoring program
A good mentor or business coach will have a vast network of associates and a deep trove of resources. It’s in your best interest to explore these and find ways to make them work for you.
That’s just one of the things that we pride ourselves on at Maui Mastermind. Our network of entrepreneurs includes some of the most passionate and driven minds in the nation – both as mentors and members.
If you’re thinking about looking for “a business mentor near me”, we’ve got you covered. Find out whether your business qualifies for a free 90-minute session with us. Or if you have any questions about our advisors or program, please feel free to contact us today.