How do you go about approaching someone to mentor you?

[Kelly_the_Great]

Okay, I know this probably sounds goofy but...How do you go about approaching someone to act as your mentor?

I want to do this in a sincere manner. But don't want to come across as "hero worshiping" (although I do admire this person very much). I also don't want to come across as "needy" (although I do need/would like their guidance). What I mean is, I don't want to come across like someone that would be a leech or someone who's just trying to smooze, ya know?

Any suggestions?

[nunurs05]

Thank you for asking this very good question...I hope someone responds:mad: Because, I also know of someone who I admire for their abilities in nursing, however, I haven't worked with them long~3 mos. Does this sound too desperate to ask after this short of time? Also, is it possible to have more than one mentor?

God bless:mad:

[gauge14iv, MSN, APRN, NP]

You just ask. Tell them you like the way they work and you would really appreciate their guidance as you work your way up.

The mentor gains as much from the mentee wether the mentee realizes it or not!

ETA: More than one mentor is nice - if they are not in conflict with each other for the most part.

[llg, PhD, RN]

You might want to consider beginning with a simple request for 1 or 2 meetings rather than suggesting a long-term committed relationship. Tell the person that you have a "few questions about ..." or that you would like to "work on your skills related to ..." and that you would like to discuss it with her. If those initial meetings go reasonably well, then you could ask if they would be willing to meet with you again and discuss a few similar topics.

If/when things are going well in the relationship, bring up the word mentoring. You could say that you have appreciated her being willing to meet with you and help you in this way, etc. Would she be willing to continue meeting with you periodically as a mentor?

Such a gradual approach might be better in a situation in which you do not already have a good relationship with the person. She might be hesitant to make a long-term committment to someone she barely knows. By having a few (more limited) discussions first -- perhaps having her advise you on a project or something -- she can get to know you so that she can gauge whether or not she would be willing to make a long-term committment.

llg

[Kelly_the_Great]

Thank you both for your very good advice! :) I feel a little more confident now. :flowersfo