Trust

We had mentioned that mentors are trustworthy with confidential information, but you have to do your part in finding a mentor that is trustworthy. Mostly, you will end up sharing with your mentor some information in confidence. Therefore, it is best if you can trust them. Trust has to be two-way and you should trust your mentor just as much as they trust you. To avoid getting in unwanted scenarios where you share sensitive information with the wrong person, it is best to take your relationship with the mentor slowly. You should take time building up some ground rules on how you will interact with your mentor, and, after several sessions, you will learn whether the mentor is trustworthy. The mentor will also find you sufficiently trustworthy to share with you their own personal information.

These factors to consider while seeking out a mentor will help you to find someone trustworthy, reliable and best-placed to help you grow. Once you are in a good relationship with your mentor, you must make the most out of it and grow your career, or move closer to achieving your life goals. After you have found a good mentor, you should be curious, and ready to leave your comfort zone; you should be honest, appreciate feedback or constructive criticism, and ensure that there is mutual respect between the two of you. The next section looks at yet another important part of your professional life: networking.