Professionals in different industries share a vocabulary with which they communicate. One that is commonly used is the word mentor.Greek in origin, it is said that Mentor, a friend of Ulysses, was entrusted with Telemachos, (Ulysses’ son) while the father was at the 10-year Trojan War. Mentor brought up the son in his father’s absence. Today mentor refers to someone who shares experience and knowledge.

Businesses embraced mentoring programs because it helps staff retention, supports professional growth, and develops a diverse workforce.

But what is mentoring? It is defined as a formal or informal relationship whereby an experienced person helps in bringing out and strengthening an individual’s potential, usually manifested in applicable skills.

Mentoring is not a new concept; technology advance provided mentors a foothold in the virtual assistance industry because communication options are now readily available. It could be looked at as a situation wherein someone advises. For example, college students seeking counsel from a particular professor about career choices or asking for a different view on issues such as marriage. Having a mentor can be crucial in creating work/life balance and self-confidence. It is important for an objective look at the impact of the personal on the professional aspect of a career.

Relating to a mentor comes in many forms. We could have the same alma mater, her/his career path is exemplary, and her/his world vision is worth emulating. In the workplace, form a relationship with peer or manager who makes you think, “I’d like to be like her/him.”

Feedback is essential for a career to move forward. Honest advice on improving one’s communications and interpersonal relationships from a mentor is worth its weight in gold.

A mentor is a listener with whom successes and frustrations can be shared and discussed. She/he provides a broad view of a career especially if she/he is an expert in the field as could be the case in the virtual assistance industry.

She/he can assist in deciding which training modules or studies are worth pursuing. Having a mentor is an opportunity to work with someone whose industry knowledge and network goes back several years, an invaluable asset when starting a career or even in mid-career.

The line manager could be a great mentor. When such a relationship is established, huge gains for the staff and the company waits around the corner. Possible immediate result is reduction in staff turnover and high morale of employees.

Alumni and industry events along with professional associations are sources of potential mentors. If you cannot find one or if the one you found has no time, keep searching. Your career may depend on it.

Written by Yoli P. – The Help