You definitely already know that self-improvement can do wonders for your success.
But what about finding success through the help of others? Isn’t that just as (if not more) important?
At Love the Hustle, we believe that passionate, inspired people can elevate each other’s success to a new level. That’s where mentorship comes into play. Having the advice of someone who’s walked in the same shoes (or heels) to provide guidance can take your success to new heights.
But don’t just take our word for it: Catalyst studies have found that having a mentor not only results in higher compensation for women, but also propels them into leadership roles faster.
Great, so how do you start? Here are 3 easy ways to find and utilize mentorship to boost your success:
Just ask!
It seems simple, because it is. You can’t expect to get the help of others or offer your advice if you don’t ask.
Granted, this might seem a little intimidating. But you should realize that most people are genuinely excited (if not flattered) to have a chance to offer their advice on how to navigate your career. In fact, according Development Dimensions International, most women are ready and willing to mentor, but haven’t simply because nobody has reached out to them.
You can start small: like simply asking a co-worker or colleague for advice on something specific. Once you realize how easy and mutually beneficial it is, you’ll see it snowball from there.
Be really open to feedback
Let’s face it: when you’re getting feedback about your own career track and life, not all of it is going to be rosy. But as Bill Gates put it, “We all need people who will give us feedback. That’s how we improve.”
If you’re not open to feedback, your mentor is going to be reluctant to give it out, or even meet with you. But if you embrace that harsher feedback with open arms, you’ll find some incredibly valuable learning opportunities. Often, the feedback that makes us want to dig into our heels the most is also the most insightful.
Even if the feedback is really harsh, you can dismiss the negativity and take the learning opportunities from it.
Give and get
Most importantly, mentorship shouldn’t be a “me, me, me” type relationship.
The best way to network – mentorship or otherwise – is to give before you get. Wharton professor Adam Grant categorizes master networkers as “givers,” and his studies have revealed that they build much stronger and more fruitful relationships than those who are only looking out for themselves.
You might be thinking “but I have nothing to offer in return!”, but that’s simply not true. Remember, nobody is an expert at everything. Plus, having a fresh perspective to bounce ideas off is value enough on its own for a mentor. A great starting point is to reach out to someone for quid pro quo feedback on a project, and letting it evolve from there.
Reach out to the Tribe
There’s a group of inspired, passionate, motivated women who would love to help you and hear your advice! Reach out to the Tribe for some guidance and to share your own. Who knows where it will take you?
