“If you cannot see where you are going, ask someone who has been there before.” J Loren Norris

Starting a business can be a lonely and rather daunting experience. However, having an astute mentor who has a wealth of experience can make the entrepreneurial journey smoother and easier. A seasoned business owner can share valuable tips, give one-on-one advice and boost morale to someone taking their first steps in the entrepreneurial world. Family, friends and peers can provide industry news and updates but a mentor shares wisdom and insight on an ongoing basis. A mentor is a trusted guide, who counsels one in their career or specific venture, with their wealth of knowledge.

A role model in the flesh provides more than inspiration; his or her very existence is confirmation of possibilities one may have every reason to doubt, saying, 'Yes, someone like me can do this.” Sonia Sotomayor

There are many benefits to having a mentor who can be a trusted guide and confidante over a period of time.

1. Someone to turn to
   Once an individual sets out on an entrepreneurial journey, they have no boss or superior to turn to when they hit a roadblock. A mentor can be a reliable support, sounding board; someone to look to for advice; somebody that can inspire confidence and the much-needed encouragement that every entrepreneur requires from time-to-time.

   
   
   

2. A different perspective
   Mentors help to view business situations from a completely new perspective. One of the drawbacks of working for oneself is that one might lose perspective of one’s problems. Thus, a small problem may seem like a huge setback and vice versa. Mentors with their vast reservoir of experience can offer a sound perspective to tackle all problems and situations.

   
   
   

3. Improving business skills
   Good mentors enhance one’s business skills. For instance, navigating client relationships, understanding employee concerns and assessing customer needs can be crucial areas where mentors can provide invaluable guidance.

   
   
   

4. Networking
   A mentor being a seasoned businessperson can introduce a new entrepreneur to a wide network of business contacts. Business expansion depends heavily on the right networking and a mentor can help open many doors for further business growth.

   
   
   

5. A dependable, long-lasting relationship
   If one is in synch with one’s mentor then one can forge a strong, long-lasting relationship through the course of one’s career. Such a solid relationship creates the foundation of trust and security.

    

A mentor can play a vital role in an entrepreneur’s growth and development. Mentors take pride in the success of their protégés. It is best if mentors and mentees work towards a collaborative relationship where both benefit from each other’s knowledge, experience and expertise.