The simple answer is yes and no. Depending on the situation of your business, having a mentor might not be necessary. But it also might make things run a lot easier.

No a Mentor is not what you need right now.

When starting out, you won’t really have time to seek out advice. Right now you’re trying to ensure that everything is getting done so that you will still have a business tomorrow. Right now the most important stuff is selling your service or product, making sure the books are accurate, providing excellent customer service, and numerous other daily tasks. You barely have enough time to think about where you’re heading.

Yes, a mentor would be the best thing for you right now.

If you could find the time to sit down with a mentor, or even for a quick phone call, it could help you in so many ways you wouldn’t believe. Granted, you need to be open to suggestions and willing to listen to what your mentor tells you, but the advice that they give will be so priceless you’d wish you had them from the start.

Finding the perfect mentor

A great way to find a mentor is by looking at your current network. Its possible that one of your own customers/clients might be a perfect candidate to help you grow your business. You can also look at local businesses or your local Chamber of Commerce. SCORE also provides assistance in locating mentors.

The mentor relationship

The mentor isn’t there to here you gripe and moan, but your complaints could lead to very helpful discussions. Typically the mentor is a seasoned veteran in running a business and because of this you have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes. They can help you make important business decisions and also keep you on track for growing your business.

Additional Reading

Working with a business mentor
What to expect from a mentor
Six things to bring to your mentor
How a mentor can benefit women in business
The truth about mentoring
Mentees on mentors