Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. – Proverbs 12:1
Biblical marketplace leaders are passionate about growing to become better leaders. One of the ways we can grow is by seeking the guidance of wise counsel. Joshua had Moses. Timothy had Paul. David had Nathan. Do you have people who you invite to speak into your life and help you lead in a way that is pleasing to the Lord?
If you don’t have a mentor, you need someone. These steps will help guide you in finding a good mentor.
- Identify your growth areas – Look through past performance reviews. Think about some of the past coaching you have received from teachers, professors, church leaders, supervisors, and family members.
- Identify some prospective mentors – Which leaders do you look up to? Why do you look up to them? What is it about them that you most want to emulate? Who might be best equipped to help you with your growth areas?
- Ask for 30 minutes of their time – Spend some time getting to know them. Share with them the things you observed that makes you look up to them. Ask if you can reach out in the future when you need some guidance. This may seem counterintuitive but don’t ask them to “mentor” you. Here you simply want to establish a relationship and get to know one another a little better.
- Schedule a couple of informal meetings – The temptation is to want to establish a regular meeting time like monthly or quarterly. I have found that when I try to do this, we sometimes struggle to identify why we’re meeting in a particular week or month or quarter. Instead, start out by meeting informally. Prepare a list of questions you want to discuss with them. Send them the list before the meeting so they have time to prepare. Buy their lunch or coffee. Their time is valuable, this shows them that you appreciate that investment of time. They likely won’t let you buy but be prepared to offer to buy and pay for the meal.
- Keep it informal – You may find that establishing a regular meeting time helps you. I encourage you to keep it informal as long as possible. Regular meeting times can work but you will find that your time is more meaningful when you have a very specific reason to get together. Regular meeting times have worked best for me when my mentor and I had something very specific we were working on to together like reading through a book or working through a project.
- Look for ways to honor and serve your mentor along the way – Write a thank you note. Offer to help them with that weekend project they’re groaning about. Remember their birthdays and anniversaries. They are investing time and wisdom into you because they care about you. Make sure you show them how much you appreciate them.
Mentors are an incredibly valuable resource for you as you strive to close the gap between your faith and work. Seek them out, draw from their wisdom, and honor them. What tips do you have for those who are looking mentors? Comment below or shoot us an email.
Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.
– Hebrews 13:7
