The Mentor and The Mentee

(Photo Taken from IvankaTrump.Com)

Ivanka Trump recently published a blog post that I'm totally feeding off of right now. As a role model to many, it's important to understand and appreciate what it means to be a mentor, and what it means to have a mentor. Not only am I a mentor to my little sister from Big Brothers Big Sisters, I also have a professional mentor who helps me stay on my career track. We met through casual conversation about my current job and come to find out - he's in the same field, only much more accomplished!

Every millennial should seek a professional mentor. Mentors are meant to help advise you during challenging times, encourage you to reach your personal goals, and inspire you to become a successful businesswomen. Before you seek a mentor, list your career goals so you have a clear idea of where you want to end up. You'll want to find a mentor who is already established in the career you're aspiring to start. Think of your network, is there anyone in your life who may already be an applicable mentor? Perhaps a former college professor or benefactor for the charity you support? Also, don't shy away from having several mentors in your life, the more the merrier!

Looking for a mentor can be intimidating because you are starting a new relationship with a successful professional. Don't shy away from simply asking your role model to serve as your mentor. Rule number one of being a mentee is to meet in-person with your mentor. Interacting face-to-face will provide you with more advice and guidance than what you'd receive conversing over text message.

Pay it forward by mentoring someone else. It's okay if you don't have your law career figured out, and your mentor already has his/her own firm. You can still be a mentor to that kid suffering through L1! Use the knowledge you do have to inspire others.

Remember its okay to ask for help. Even more importantly, its okay to accept help that is offered to you. Mentoring is a mutual relationship, and you will find that both the mentor and the mentee will benefit in different ways.