One piece of advice that I have been given since I was an undergraduate was to have a mentor. However, it wasn’t until I entered the business world and had a mentor of my own that I understood the importance and impact that one can have. A mentor is someone that will be your sounding block and guide through not only professional situations, but can become a friend and confidant.

If you work for a company that places a lot of value on their employee’s professional growth and happiness within the office they may have a mentor program that you enroll in, like Matter. If you have this opportunity, take advantage of it, having a mentor will positively impact your work life in many ways.

If you don’t currently have a mentor, I suggest you start looking for one. Still need convincing?

Here are 5 reasons a mentor Matters:

1. Perspective

A mentor in your field has been there and done that. When you are facing a problem at work, working on a difficult project, and more – odds are your mentor has been there and can offer you a perspective different from your own. They are able to pull you out of your world, show you the big picture and give you guidance on how to adjust.

 

2. Inspiration

Do you remember those people you looked up to when you were young? The people that inspired you to want to dream? Those you modeled yourself after? These were your role models and sources of inspiration – this is exactly who a mentor can be. They have navigated the career ladder and have a wealth of experience. They have grown with flying colors, and now they are here to inspire you to be your best self and do your best work. They are here to help you achieve your goals and dreams.

 

3. Accountability

A mentor can be a friend, but they are not afraid to hold you accountable. In the professional world, time is valuable, and your mentor will not be afraid to call you out when you are not doing your best work. They are able to challenge your preconceptions, offer a different perspective, and perhaps even change your point of view. Your mentor will support you, but they will also challenge you, and that will make you better.

 

4. Networking

A mentor within your profession, or your company, can offer you an extended network. Not just professionally, but socially as well. It is important to have a group of people in your office and field that you connect with. These people can be helpful when you are seeking advice on your career path, but they can also perk up your bad day by having a good laugh over lunch.

 

5. Career Advice

Whether you are adjusting to a new role in your office, going after a promotion, or are comfortable with your role, having a mentor give you access to career advice that others may not have. They have suggestions for how to make the transition easier, they will champion you for that promotion, or they will push you to take on something new and challenging. Having two sets of eyes on your career can help you take it to new heights.

Mentors have so much to offer throughout your years in the workplace. They can help guide, support, champion, advise you, and so much more. If your workplace does not have a mentor program get out there and make the connection yourself. If you do have a mentor program take advantage of it and make the effort to create a mutually beneficial relationship. Mentors matter, and that is why I am excited to create a new mentor relationship through Matter’s mentor program.