Finding a mentor:  Sometimes it’s easier said than done.  To be honest, often times a mentor will choose a mentee based on performance.  Real talk.  However, if you are in search of a mentor here are some practical tips, where you can begin developing a cadre of mentors or advisors.  In today’s busy times everyone is extremely selective in any engagement that is above and beyond a regular workday.  Again, real talk, you are going to have to do a little work and get a little brave! J  

First, really get specific on why you want or need a mentor.  What are you looking to achieve?  What are your future goals?  Often times I here, “I want to be promoted”.  Again, real talk, that is too vague.  Before you engage anyone to be your mentor, study your career field to determine the competencies for the next promotion, then review your skill set and determine areas you need to strengthen.  Boom, you have a viable conversation starter.  That is something tangible your mentor can advise next steps, training opportunities or projects.  Also, I would offer when reaching out to somebody you may be interesting in as a mentor, just ask for some career advice first.  Real talk, everybody is not suited for you and you are not suited for everybody, so take a measured approach by asking for a relatively easy career question.  If you build rapport, great.  If not, then neither of you invested too much time.  

Finally, if you want to reach out to an executive at some point you should have met.  Executives often times may not be able to connect with too many cold calls, so get involved in your organization, so you have a likelihood to meet and network with executives.  Your time is now — and it’s over time to crack the code on career progression!