Small businesses are considered by many to be the backbone of the Canadian economy. A business mentor can prove to be a valuable asset to have in one’s corner, and finding one that’s a good fit can make a real difference.
What does a business mentor do
A business mentor is an individual, often with many years of personal experience they wish to share. They help their clients avoid the pitfalls and mistakes they made themselves, and share their other knowledge as well. Another benefit they bring to the table is that they can provide emotional support and a listening ear.
Start with networking
Finding a mentor that is a suitable fit can start with putting networking contacts to good use. Find out if they have a business mentor and, if they do, would they recommend them?
Sites like LinkedIn and other social media platforms may also be helpful. Using these can make it possible to view numerous profiles and connect with those that could be a good match.
Ask the experts
Many of those who have “been there, done that”, are happy to share their knowledge and the story of how they found success. They can be contacted by email to request a meeting, and this can take place in person or online.
Attend meetups and other events
There’s groups for almost every business sector and interest, and these can be a great way to meet others and share best practices. They can also be helpful in building business contact networks.
Explore online options
The internet can be a valuable tool for those looking for support and advice when it comes to running their company. Forums and similar sites offer the opportunity to ask others about their mentoring experiences, and there are also Facebook groups that can be helpful.
Form a mastermind group
A mastermind group is a gathering of like-minded individuals that meet in the real world or online, allowing its members to offer support to one another. This can be very helpful when the going gets tough, and provides human connection. If they are virtual, they offer the chance to connect with others from all over the world.
SCORE some mentoring help
Sites like SCORE match those needing advice or other assistance with online mentors. They offer tips based on their own real-world experience, and this initial assistance is often available free of charge.
Make use of government tools
The provincial and federal governments may be helpful starting points when looking for a mentor. They provide a range of programs through their agencies, and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada offers an Innovation Advisors program.
The benefits for a home base business
Many Canadian companies are small businesses, often run out of the owner’s home. Working with a mentor provides the chance to get an outsider’s view, and they can also supply advice for expanding their mentee’s networks of contacts.
Tips for choosing the right mentor
To be helpful, a mentor has to be a good listener and willing to share their knowledge and experience. Honesty is important, and the relationship is often a two-way street.
A good mentor will recognize the importance of balancing one’s personal and working life. They can help with goal setting and support professional development.
Respect is vital when working with a mentor, and this goes both ways. It’s a partnership that often benefits both parties, and questions should always be welcome.
What to avoid
Avoid a mentor who sets unrealistic goals or offers feedback that feels critical instead of constructive. They should encourage setting targets that are clearly defined, and many find that working with one that has a different background than they do offers new insights and a fresh perspective.
One mistake mentees make is to choose a mentor with a communication style that doesn’t mesh with theirs. This is why it can be wise to ask lots of questions, especially early on in the process. They should also be readily available and see both parties in the relationship as equals, each with something to bring to the table. For their part, mentees should be respectful of their time, and take care to follow the boundaries they set.
Helping Canadian businesspeople reach their goals
Jim Crisafulli has decades of experience as both a consultant and small business owner himself, which he is happy to share with his mentoring clients. Contact him today to find out more about what he has to offer.
Written By
Christian