We all know that mentors are important. But who should be your mentor, and where should you find them?
The best possible mentors are people who have not only "been there before", but also stand to gain little if you succeed or fail.
That last part is the curve ball, because it's easy to find people older than you in your industry that enjoy giving advice.
Those friends can be very valuable. They often help us gain senior level relationships, generate leads, and land some new business. They are valuable, but not the only types of mentors you should seek.
Mentors from different industries are able to give you advice and ideas, free of prejudice. We all mentally collude with our industry peers, falling into habits of thought. A mentor from the outside can give clear, logical business advice that your whole industry may be lacking. That could mean unique solutions. Unique solutions are the key to innovation and growth.
Mentors from the outside also don't subconsciously have a place in mind for you that suits them. They are better able to size up your authentic strengths and challenges, thus handing you real, smart, helpful support. It is like having a therapist. Sure you have dear friends and family that are intelligent and great listeners, but they can't be an appropriate mediator, or an objective therapist.
If you are from Generation X, consider finding some mentors younger than you. There is huge value in having younger mentors. They know how to reach today's audience, and are much more tuned into "what's coming next". They are not playing catch up because they are busy writing the new rules.
Some of my most valuable and helpful mentors are several years younger than me. I was about to start a very high risk, low margin, cash flow dependent distributor last year. My younger friend, Dave, who is not in the furniture business, walked me through the business plan. He didn't tell me not to give it a try, but his excellent questions and ideas led me to a wise halt. Had I not hit pause, I wouldn't have met my now business partners ( and mentors) at Seibold Baker. I'm now helping lead a profitable business model perfect for my goals and expertise.
We, Seibold Baker Illinois, just added a new line to our rep group. Clarus Glassboards. Clarus is only five years old, and the owners are quite a bit younger than me. That said, they have still managed to become the largest manufacture of glass erase systems in the USA.
The fresh, clear perspective Clarus brings to our industry has already been eye opening for me. They have a progressive, clear brand, with lightening quick customer service. I chalk much of this up to their younger leadership. I know I am going to learn so much from these guys.
One of best presenters and speakers I have met in a long time is the head of sales and marketing for our manufacturing partner, Izzy. He may be my junior in age, but is leaps and bounds ahead of me as it pertains to design trends, workplace strategy, and overall moxy. I'm reading books he has recommended and following his thought leaders from twitter. All have been inspiring and insightful.
The main point is to avoid getting into a rut with your mentors. Enjoy your wise industry friends, but don't forget to enlist people born after you, and from outside your industry.
