Entrepreneurship is a journey full of uncertainties, with equal distribution of opportunities as well as challenges. Surviving in such a challenging environment is not possible for everyone, and that could be one of the reasons why more than half of new startups fail within the initial five years.
Here, the importance of mentorship in entrepreneurship comes into the picture. A mentor having similar experience or expertise in the subject can provide invaluable support and guidance. They can help you in not only mapping the success path but also aware you of the possible challenges you might face, which inexperienced individuals often overlook.
But how to find a trustworthy mentor and not get scammed by hyped-up fake coaching? Worry not, we’ve got this covered. In today’s article, we will discuss the significance of mentorship and ways to find a reliable one.
Why do you need a mentor?
Knowledge transfer and experience sharing
One of the primary benefits of having a mentor is that they can offer real-world advice, share lessons from their own successes and failures, and provide guidance on overcoming common obstacles, as they have walked the same path you are on. Hence, having a mentor is like a key to the treasure of practical wisdom you lack as a beginner.
For accountability and goal-setting
Entrepreneurship is a long journey, and you might get short-sighted at times which might mess up the long-term vision you had. In cases like that, a mentor helps you in setting clear realistic goals. And, regular check-ins with a mentor ensure that you are on the right track and stay committed to your long-term vision.
To access networking opportunities
Having the right connections in the industry can help you access resources, partnerships, and collaborations that might otherwise be out of reach. Hence, building a network is essential in entrepreneurship, and a mentor can help you with that.
For emotional support
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey sometimes with its fair share of highs and lows. A trustworthy mentor can relate to the emotional challenges you might face and provide guidance on how to stay resilient.
How to find a trustworthy mentor?
After you are sure that you will be seeking mentorship, it’s time for you to define your goal as in what you aim to gain from the mentorship. It is important to decide whether you looking for guidance in a specific area, such as marketing or finance, or do you need general business advice. Knowing your goals will help you find a mentor whose expertise is in alignment with your goals and needs.
Explore your existing network
You can start your mentorship search within your existing network. There are chances that you might already know someone with the experience and knowledge you are looking for. It could be a former colleague, a friend, or even a family member.
Industry associations and events
Being part of industry associations, conferences, and networking events can also be a great way to meet potential mentors. What these events do is bring together professionals with a shared interest, allowing you to find someone to guide you.
Lookout for online communities
Online communities can be a great resource in seeking genuine mentorship. Like for example websites like LinkedIn, SCORE, and MicroMentor allow you to search for mentors based on specific criteria, such as location, expertise, and industry.
Or you can use social media platforms like Facebook and Reddit to search for forums and groups and engage with other entrepreneurs for advice.
Accessing mentorship programs and incubators
One of the most straightforward ways to get in touch with a mentor is through mentorship programs. These programs often have a pool of experienced mentors who can provide guidance to startups and entrepreneurs. By joining such programs you can access mentorship in a structured way.
Another way could be mentorship through incubators, where you receive mentorship and coaching in return for equity in the startup.
Conclusion
The entrepreneurial journey is uncertain, and having the right guidance saves you from being too optimistic or negative. Being neutral at times of highs and lows is crucial in this journey and that comes with confidence, which is again linked to experience. Experience comes with years of work, but a genuine mentor can help you reach there way ahead of time.
Remember that a mentor with the right knowledge and experience can help you set and achieve your goals, make valuable connections, and provide emotional support. Mentorship is a reciprocal relationship where both parties benefit. Where a mentor gains a sense of satisfaction as well as an opportunity to build a community in the future. So, don’t hesitate to seek mentorship and embrace the wisdom and guidance that an experienced mentor can offer on your path to success.
