The Mentor Makes a Difference

Written by Mandy Boyle, graduate student and freshly-minted communications professional

My love affair with communications started like most. I stumbled into it, found out I was good at it, and decided to stick with it. But that’s not what this post is about. This post is about how I came to be a young professional; how I came to be a communicator.

Most college students enter their programs of study with a goal in mind. In my case, I wanted to be a journalist, and may have even become one (no disrespect to journalists out there) if it weren’t for a parade of very special people who started to show me that there were other perspectives than my own. That is what this post is about: mentors.

Every young communicator needs to interact with  and learn from seasoned professionals. It simply has to happen. Mentoring is one of the most unique and important aspects of career and personal development and young communicators shouldn’t be left out of the professional circle.

What Mentoring Means to a Young Communicator 

Well, for starters, a mentor acts as a sounding board. When you have questions about a campaign or thoughts on a media strategy, your mentor can often offer insight and perspective. Not all learning in communications can come from textbooks. Mentors give you a real-world view of what it’s like to work in the industry. They tell you the truth about what you’re doing and give practical advice on how to survive once you’re out in the real world with a piece of paper and a whole lot of hopes and dreams.

 Having a mentor also:

• Lets you make connections in the industry.
• Teaches you humility (if you get a good mentor who can keep you in line).
• Keeps your mind fresh.
• Affirms you’re on the right path.
• Inspires passion for the industry.
• Teaches you to go beyond what’s in the textbook.
• Gives  you access to professional (and sometimes personal) advice when you need it.
• Opens doors to prospective jobs or internships.
• Gives you the chance at long-lasting professional relationships.

Now, these are just a few of the benefits. The point is that any young professional can benefit from reaching out and making that connection.

Mentors Come in All Shapes and Sizes

When you think of “mentors”, you probably picture someone who has made an impression on you. Maybe it was a coach or a family member. Maybe it was a teacher.

Mentors aren’t uniform and they don’t fit a specific set of criteria. They come from all different walks of life and career paths. Maybe they’re not even in communications. Usually, they come into your life unexpectedly. What they do have to offer is the same: a different take than your own.

When seeking out a mentor, look to find someone who can teach something you want to learn. For young professionals looking to start a career in communications, seek out people who have experience in the industry or are familiar with what it takes to succeed in it. Find people who are knowledgeable and willing to share their perspective.

 Finding Mentors

If you’re a young communicator, you can find mentors in a variety of places. Stuck? Here are a few suggestions on how to track one down:

• Ask a professor.
• Call or email an advertising or PR agency in your area and ask to do some job shadowing.
• Attend a conference.
• Ask your friends about their mentors.
• Network at a local professionals meeting.
• Use social media to make contacts on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter.
• Read and comment on blogs and books by communicators.
• Participate in online communities and conversations, like #HAPPO and #PRStudChat.

Mentors don’t have to be people you spend tons of time with. They don’t even have to live in the same state. You can form relationships with mentors at varying degrees; there’s no set rule on how much or how little you have to interact. Look to connect with people who can offer you solid advice, experience, and connection on a basis that is comfortable for you both and go from there.

Professionals: This Is Your Gig Too

If you’re a professional, dedicate your time to being a mentor, even if it’s in little ways Give advice. Get involved in the #PRStudChat. Answer questions on LinkedIn from students. Offer to be guest speaker at a local college. Work with interns. Having experience in the communications industry is great, but that experience only goes so far. You have to share it. Your expertise can make all the difference in the lives of future communicators who may enter the industry as I am now. 

Make sure we’re prepared.

Mandy Boyle is a graduate student and freshly-minted communications professional. As a Search Engine Optimization Specialist for Solid Cactus and published freelance writer, Mandy is no stranger to compelling storytelling. When she’s not at her laptop or in the classroom, you can usually find her in the kitchen. Cupcakes are her specialty. Follow Mandy on Twitter at @mandyboyle or visit her website (http://mandyboyle.com).