How to Get a Mentor For Your Business

As an entrepreneur, you undoubtedly understand the value that comes when you get a mentor for your business. Having a seasoned mentor offers a multitude of advantages to help you navigate what may be uncharted waters for you. But, have you considered if the gender of your mentor might impact your course?

Clearly, there are both successful women and men in this world. When looking at what makes them successful, there are a number of traits that are common among leaders, regardless of gender. But, all people have individual gifts, and some of those gifts can be attributed to the nature of your gender.

What Should You Consider?

When looking to get a mentor for your business, you naturally want to consider your desired goals and how you want a mentor to guide and teach you. You will want to get a mentor for your business that has already accomplished something similar to what you intend to accomplish yourself. If they have sailed the seas ahead of you, there is a better chance they have successfully navigated through waves of experience and the connections that would also help you realize your potential.

Male Or Female?

So, can it make a difference if you choose male or female mentors? There are a couple of ways of thinking on this. Some people might say that a male mentor is good if you want to get connected and increase your visibility or if you need sponsorship. You might also hear that women mentors are more approachable and able to help bridge the male/female gap internally because they have likely done it themselves.

Perhaps you are familiar with situations or circumstances that would provide evidence of the descriptions above. I have referenced many times how science shows us that the brains of men and women work differently. But, do these molds hold true in every circumstance? Not necessarily. When all is said and done, I believe who you choose as your mentor depends on your comfort level with them and your particular goals.

What Matters Most

In my career, I have had mentors and I have been a mentor. From my experiences, I have found that it is best to find an advisor with whom you can connect and are proud to work with. Most importantly, your mentor should have the experience necessary to help you ride the current of running your business. They should be your lookout as you steer the course toward personal and business success. So, in choosing a mentor, whether they are women or men truly depends on what works best for you. Successful mentors come from all walks of life. The real matter at hand is choosing a mentor wisely and then fostering that relationship. The right mentor can make all the difference in the world.