Mentorship is impactful to the mentor and mentee.
Regardless of accomplishments, everyone should find a mentor. Having the right person in your corner can give you new insights, expand your knowledge, and help you take career advancement steps that will get you where you want to go. It’s not a one-way street, either. The experience is valuable for mentors because they home in leadership and communication skills and create networking opportunities too.
The benefits of mentorship exist across the board, but when you’re part of a minority group or are the minority in your profession or industry, it becomes that much more essential to have a strong network. This is what’s being seen within the energy sector, especially with women. Although pronounced in virtually all roles, the gender disparity grows exponentially within leadership roles, meaning it pays to find a mentor regardless of your career path, but if you have your sights set on leadership, you need a tribe. But, how exactly do you do that? It’s actually easier than you might think.
1. Find a mentor organically.
Instead of thinking about finding a mentor as an action you
need to take, focus on building relationships with lots of different people. When
you have specific questions or need to solve a problem, tap into your network to
find solutions. An organic mentorship is likely to emerge even if you don’t
have an official mentor-mentee relationship.
2. Explore mentorship programs within your company.
Many organizations recognize the value in offering
mentorship programs, particularly if they’re working a robust diversity and
inclusion program. Head to your company’s human resources department or employee
website to see if they already have the framework set up. If not, pitch the
idea to them.
3. Attend industry workshops and meetups to build your network.
Industry-related workshops, training sessions, lectures, and
other meetups attract growth-minded people, and that’s exactly who you want to be
networking with. The more events you attend, the more connections you’ll make, and
the more likely you are to find a mentor organically.
Pink Petro has a full event listing for the energy sector you can browse at any time or become a member to get connected with the industry, get tips, and stay in the loop as new events are announced.
4. Join Lean In Energy to find a mentor.
Lean In Energy allows you to find a mentor in a way that works best for you.
- Communities: Connect with others based on region, location, discipline and special interest. Although not mentorship-focused, the communities will help you network and develop organic relationships with other women in the energy sector.
- Small Group Mentoring: Lean In’s intelligent algorithm matches you with others based upon the profile you create. You’ll be placed in a group with a 1-to-4 mentor to mentee ratio and complete a structured six-month mentoring program.
- Flash Mentoring: Grab a one-hour session with someone who has expertise that can help your most pressing need. Your mentor can help you develop skills, prep for an interview, explore a new career path, and more. It’s flexible and there’s no long-term commitment.
Visit Lean In Energy to learn more.
Feature image credit: Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels.
