Having a Mentor is the New Black
In New York City, we are so conditioned to pay for advice. Without blinking we throw money at our therapists, trainers, dieticians and spiritual gurus.
But is it possible for us to get some of the most valuable guidance for free? I am a believer that if someone has what you want -- do what they do. And in order to do what they do, make them your mentor. This week I am filling in for my mentor Karen Salmansohn, who I am happy to say is finally relaxing dammit! As a young entrepreneur and public speaker with a book in the works, I knew that Karen was the perfect mentor for me. Want to know how to get the most out of your mentor? Read on:
Be of service. I realized the importance of being useful I began to help Karen secure guests for her Sirius Satellite Radio show. Her response to my help was to incorporate me into her world and watch over my career.
Just say yes. I met my other mentor Joe Watson, author of "Without Excuses," by agreeing to be interviewed for his PR reel. We connected immediately and he inspired me to write my book, "Falling in Love with your Future -- A Young Woman's Guide to Passion and Happiness."
Don't be shy. If there is someone you want as a mentor, simply approach them and say hello. Author Keith Ferrazzi met his mentor, Pat Loconto, the CEO of Deloitte Consulting, by walking up to him at a party and flat out asking "who are you?"
This year, make a resolution that will cost you nothing and possibly boost your career: Get yourself a mentor. And if you're feeling generous, be a mentor too.
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