How Introverts Can Make the Most Out of Being Mentored at Work - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / How Introverts Can Make the Most Out of Being Mentored at Work - Introvert Whisperer How Introverts Can Make the Most Out of Being Mentored at Work A good mentor can be a tremendous asset at work. They can help guide you through your career, they can answer questions when you get stuck, and they can also be a person to vent to when things get tough. But introverts are far less likely to seek out mentors. Often times the daily social contact we go through at the office is more than what we need, practically no one wants to seek out more But research suggests that having a mentor can provide a big boost to your career. So even though it’s difficult, you should try your best to find a mentor and make use of them. However, since mentorship is in many ways designed by and for extroverts, you’re going to have to approach things in a different way.   And here are four ways you can do this. Sign Up For Formal Mentoring Programs To be able to make the most out of a mentor-mentee relationship, you need to first have a mentor. And for most introverts, this can prove to be the most difficult part of the process. And this is where formal mentoring programs come into place. Many companies recognize the value of a mentor, and they offer these programs as a way to help people take advantage of them. And most of these programs will allow you to specify some of your interests so that you stand a better chance of matching up with someone and having a connection. This is helpful for introverts because it makes it more likely you’ll find someone you like to work with. But the real value is that it forces you to meet with someone. As introverts, if we rely on ourselves to make this initial contact, it will never happen. However, if all we have to do is answer a few questions online and put our name on a list, then it becomes much easier to initiate this type of relationship and get all the rewards. Of course, it will still be difficult in the beginning, but this is a great way to get you started and heading in the right direction. Be Open With Your Mentor Part of the reasons we struggle as introverts is because people don’t understand what introversion is and how it affects us. Most of the extroverts who have no experience with introversion will just label you as “quiet” or a “loner.” But this represents a gross misunderstanding of what introversion is. So, to get the most out of working with a mentor, it’s important to be upfront with them right away. If they’re not familiar with introverts, then spend some time talking about it. Maybe even suggest they do some reading about it so that they can be more informed. This might sound weird, or even a bit uncomfortable, but this is where you need to have some faith in people. If someone has signed up or has agreed to be your mentor, then this is a sign they are willing to help. And in your case, to be helpful, they will need to understand what introversion is as well as some of the challenges it can present. This helps prevent you from ending up with someone who tells you to “open up,” or “just be yourself,” or worse, who suggests you join a public speaking group. You need someone who will give you advice that’s going to work, and for this to happen, you need to be open and honest with your mentor right from the beginning. Choose Communication Forms You Like The beauty of a mentor-mentee relationship is that it’s far more relaxed than many of the other interactions we have at work. You don’t need to sit through uncomfortable one-on-ones, or go to loud, chaotic coffee shops or bars, if you don’t want to. In fact, you don’t even need to meet face-to-face all that often. Again, this is part of the reason it’s so important to be open with your mentor from the beginning. If it’s easier for you to communicate via text message or email, let them know. You may want to meet with them in person every once in a while just to touch base, but don’t force yourself into situations you don’t want to just because. Your relationship with your mentor will be much better if you can communicate in ways that make sense for you. Pick Someone You Feel Comfortable With Lastly, it’s important to work with someone who you feel comfortable with. This means finding someone who shares similar interests, or maybe even someone who exhibits some of the personality traits of an introvert. This way you’ll have some things to talk about that aren’t centered around work, which will make it easier to break the ice and develop a more meaningful relationship. Again, this is where formal mentor programs can be great. You can choose from a group of people based on interest and experience, and this will make it easier to find someone with whom you can build a relationship. Don’t Be Afraid of Finding a Mentor It’s true that even with these tactics, the idea of approaching and working with a mentor can still be a bit scary. But hopefully these bits of advice will help make the whole process seem a bit less daunting so that you can find a mentor that will help you take a big step forward in your career. About the Author: Kevin Conner is based in Jacksonville, Fla. He is the founder and CEO of Broadband Search, and enjoys working to help people succeed in their careers and with their business goals. Much of the writing he does online is to promote those looking to take a step forward as he knows we all need help and guidance from time to time. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. 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