How do we avoid being lampreys and add value?!

For many of us adding value to our real estate property is not operose work. Hours of watching HGTV has provided us with a keen eye for where to apply paint, flooring, or basic updates.

However, as a new investor, I have found adding value to potential mentorships infinitely more challenging. I feel like Pee Wee Herman walking into a gym and attempting to add value to the work out regimen of Chris Hemsworth.

Certainly as a newby we do not want to be known as a lamprey- latching on to a mentor without the intent of ever letting go. However, adding value in an arena where you are the least knowledgable can be a tall order. 

So what are the practical ways in which we can add value? Certainly we can recommend books, or bring deals to the table; however, are these the most efficient or organic? If you have recommendations feel free to post below. We can all use some ideas to create value in our professional relationships and let's avoid becoming lampreys.