Knowing when to seek mentoring and setting mentoring goals can be challenging. Often, people seek out mentors that they find inspiring and want to follow a similar path, but mentors can help with various skills and challenges you might face.
Here are some of the situations in which a mentor could help with:
Furthering careers

Writing/improving your CV

● Mentors will have experience in tailoring their CVs to specific job roles and industries, so they can help you to improve your CV

Completing a job application

● Increasingly employers are using automated tests as part of job application processes; it can be useful to hear tips on how to handle these tests and make the most of your skills

Practising interview skills

● Even a one-time session with a mentor can help you understand what to expect, how to best prepare & how to calm your nerves!

Settling into an industry

Researching careers

● Speaking to a mentor can be very beneficial to understanding the rate of progression and typical responsibilities of different job roles

Applying for further study

● If you’re considering further study, speaking to a mentor can help you consider what type of further study might be most beneficial for your future career plans

Visits to their workplace / finding out about working cultures in organisations

● Learning about working cultures can help you make the right decision about which organisations and job roles to apply for

Sharing experience / personal development

Confidence building

● Whether you’re starting a new career, dealing with a challenge or just need some reassurance, having a mentor can help you build confidence in yourself and your role

Setting development goals

● It can be overwhelming to plan years ahead for your career - setting development goals can be valuable to ensure you stay on the right path, and a mentor can help you to set these and make a plan to achieve them

Time management

● Developing soft skills such as time management is essential to succeed in the workplace; mentors can share tips and strategies for managing multiple workstreams