What should a mentor be?

[Account Closed]

I never had a mentor. I have heard a million times that people should get a mentor and how much that has helped them. I whole heartedly believe that. I think the main reason I never had a mentor is because I never asked anyone. I know the reason I never asked anyone is because I never saw anyone who really had what I wanted. Is that my fault? Probably. The best part about life is normally it’s never too late.

For all of you out there who have had mentors, both good and bad, what did you think a mentor should be? What role did they play in your life and business? Are you currently mentoring someone now and passing it on?

I have found myself in a position where I am mentoring two young men and I want to do them justice. Give me your tips and advice!

[Michael Albaum]

Hey Scott, a mentor should be exactly what you mentioned, someone who has done/been where it is you're looking to go/be. Finding a great mentor also takes time because the relationship needs to be fostered and built, just like any other relationship. After meeting someone once or hearing about someone, you may not know yet if they'd be a good fit to be a mentor to you.

One piece of advice I can give you is PLEASE do not run up/reach out to someone you don't yet have an established relationship with yet and say "will you be my mentor?" It's a sure fire way to never get a mentor.

Also be thinking about what value you can bring to them, and don't ask them what you can do, as that forces them to now stop and think about what you can do for them. Try to have that part figured out already.

Go to meetups (virtual these days) and network with others who are like minded.

Also, while there is a ton of information for free online, don't be opposed to paying for a mentor or coach, they can usually increase the amount of knowledge you will gain and decrease the amount of time it takes to absorb. So if you're open to that sort of setup, that'll likely widen the scope of potential mentors. If you do go the paid route, just make sure it's not some guru who's claiming to know everything and have a secret sauce, make sure it's someone who's actually also an active investor and who's values align with your own.

Hope this helps!