There is no question that recent college graduates are struggling.

Uncertain economic times have fostered a conservative approach to hiring. And because recent college graduates represent more of a long-term investment, hiring has simply not been as robust as it was in the past.

There is no question that all the standard approaches to the job search must be exploited vigorously. However, if the college graduate can find one professional willing to provide advice and counsel, that could be helpful. A mentor can help in avoiding some wasted steps and could facilitate creating a connection in the professional community.

We all believe an unbiased observer can provide meaningful constructive criticism as well as experienced guidance in avoiding the pitfalls so many job seekers make. In addition, for people who are just starting out, an experienced adviser who understands the "real world" within a profession, industry or organization, can be invaluable.

The good news is there are many business, professional and social organizations, and companies that can help. Either they have specific formal mentoring programs or their members or employees are willing to serve as mentors and provide good advice and counsel about their specific business, industry or organization.

Finding a mentor must be separate from finding a job. A mentor must fill the role of a trusted adviser. If a search for a mentor is simply a cover for finding a job, both the relationship with the potential mentor and job prospects can be jeopardized. Honesty and candor are critical components of the relationship, and it must works both ways. Mutual trust is crucial.

So, when seeking a mentor, what are the considerations that can make or break a relationship?

As the mentee, you want and expect benefits from the relationship. The mentor also has expectations. Consequently, good planning before you start the search for a mentor is critical. The goal should be to find a mentor whose personality, self-awareness and expectations appropriately mirror yours.

First and foremost, you must be very clear about your expectations. You must ask yourself: What is the purpose of the mentoring relationship? What do I want to accomplish? And, how will I know that I have achieved my goals? The more specific you can be in addressing these questions, the better your chances for creating a good working mentor relationship.

This is important because when you find mentor candidates, your expectations and the mentor's willingness and ability to fulfill those expectations must be consistent. Even in a relationship where the mentor is simply a sounding board, that should be agreed upon beforehand, or neither party will be satisfied. So if you are considering a more complex relationship where significant time or other commitment has to be made by both parties, up front agreement and clear understanding of goals and obligations is crucial.

It is obvious that mentoring for a recent graduate is vastly different from someone who has years of experience in one field but is seeking a career change. The mentees differ in self-esteem, work and life experience, and maturity. At the same time cultural differences can require different approaches. In a community as diverse as ours, it would be a big mistake to ignore these differences and simply assume that one mentoring style fits all.

It cannot be overemphasized that you must take the time to think through your goals and objectives of any mentoring situation. These goals and objectives should be thoroughly understood by the potential mentor.

Not everyone makes a good mentor. Professionals generally assume that any manager has the qualities to perform mentoring responsibilities. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Some managers think they have all the answers. Others lack the sensitivity and understanding that is crucial to a good mentoring relationship.

Don't assume that you are ahead of the game if someone you respect agrees to be a mentor.

Seek alternatives. Ask probing questions. Make sure the prospective mentor understands the twoway relationship that must be nurtured to create a successful mentoring process. There are some statistics that suggest most mentor relationships don't work very well. Consequently, preparation can pay big dividends.

Finding the right job or career is becoming more and more complex. There are a host of activities, lots of preparation, training and creativity that goes into the job search. Some of these activities cost only your dedication, commitment and hard work. Finding the right mentor can be invaluable as you begin to ask the hard questions about your future.

A good mentor is an adviser, a supporter, a cheerleader and even a friend who provides the kind of encouragement that can give you the courage and inspiration to follow your passion.


Professionals generally assume that any manager has the qualities to be a mentor. But some managers think they have all the answers. Others lack the sensitivity and understanding.