Something has led you to ask some version of the question “how do I ask a leader to mentor me.” And here you are.
Here are a few basic steps:
List out the traits of type of leader you’d like to have as a mentor. Even if you already have someone specific in mind, make the list. Examples of traits might include discipline, focus, ability to stay calm under pressure, good communication skills, lifelong learner, kindness, etc.
Identify the person. Make sure their behavior matches the list of traits you listed.
Create a list of what you’d like to gain from a mentor. Examples might include coaching on effective communication strategies, someone to listen to my current challenges and provide honest, direct feedback, and introductions to people of influence in my industry or community.
Think through the approach you’ll utilize to ask the prospective mentor to mentor you. Will you wait until you see them in a social setting, ask for an in-person appointment by email, or use another method?
Provide proposed metrics for success. Be ready to share your your list of goals for the mentorship and the time that you’re requesting over a specified period (e.g. 30 minutes of in-person time twice a month at their office for one year. Or 1 hour over lunch once a month, for 8 months.) They’ll be more likely to agree if you are very specific with your ask and they can see you value their time with specific outcome metrics.
