Once I’ve found someone though, how do I ask them?
Do you just email them and ask, or is there a better way to make your case?
Sincerely,Desperately Seeking Senpai
Dear Desperately,You’re right to ask the question.
Don’t set your sights too far off into the future.
If your company has a mentorship program, start there.
You’re not paying them for their time, and they don’t owe you anything.
Come to the table with how much time and attention you think you’ll need.
Don’t make them guess how much of a time sink you’ll be.
Let them know up front how much time and attention you really think your mentor/mentee relationship will demand.
Remember, your prospective mentor is likely busy with their own projects.
Make your case based on common experiences and interests.
If you do have common interests or hobbies, play that up too.
Explain you’re looking for advice and guidance, not a tutor.
If your question seems to make your prospective mentor uncomfortable, back off.
Mentors, like references, should be 100% dedicated to the task of helping you out.
They may take the lead, but don’t expect them to.
If there’s ever a doubt, take the initiative.
Remember, you’re there to learn and soak up as much as possible fromthem.
Don’t make them work just to get a hold of you.
Good luck,Lifehacker
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Title image made usingPakhnyushcha(Shutterstock) andMichael D Brown(Shutterstock).
Additional photos byUS Army RDECOM,US Army Corps of Engineers,Sharpshutter(Shutterstock), andAshraful Kadir.
