How to Find (and Keep) a Great Mentor

PART 2: ATHENA MENTORS & SPONSORS BLOG SERIES

Mentorship doesn’t start with a formal request. It starts with curiosity and connection.

The best mentorships are organic, reciprocal, and built on mutual respect.Sarah Hassaine reflected:

“I didn’t wait for a program. I identified two people I admired and asked to learn from them. One was in HR, the other in business development. They gave me totally different lenses.”

How to Find a Great Mentor:

1. Start with clarity | What do you want to learn? What kind of feedback do you need?

2. Look beyond your comfort zone | Mentors in different functions often offer richer insight.

3. Build before you ask | Comment on their work. Follow up after events. Demonstrate curiosity.

4. Be ready to give, too | Mentorship is a two-way street.

The Ask

Keep it simple and sincere. Example: “I really admire how you’ve navigated your career. Would you be open to a short conversation about your path?”

Next: The power of sponsorship—and how to find someone who will put their name behind yours.