Walk into peoples offices and start talking to them. Yes, it sounds crazy, but it works. I've done this to dozens of people. They are usually very friendly and willing to sit down and talk with you. I have NEVER had anyone not be friendly or be open to talking. Often, I end up talking for over an hour!
Here are some pick up opening lines you can use:
- Hi, I see you all the time but I haven't officially met you, I'm Bruce.
- Hi, We sit next to each other but I haven't really talked to you. I'm Bruce.
- Hi, I work on this project, but I've always been really interested in department/role. Do you have a minute to chat?
From here, ask about them, talk about yourself, and then this part is really important. ASK for their advice/opinion on something! This is how you can start the mentoring relationship. Then stop by regularly if you guys get along and if you like that person.
Super Hint: My friend Jeff Landsberg of www.tonmiletrader.com fame gave me this awesome tip that I have used to great effect. If you are a guy, find a male mentor that does not have children, or one that does not have a son. They will see you as "the son they never had", and do a really GREAT job being a mentor/champion. I do not know how this works for females, but I suspect that most women want to help other women succeed in a male dominated workplace.
1 comments:
I love the Super Hint. In psychology this is known as transference. The mentor will not just see you like a son, he will subconsciously think you are... thus, he will want to bestow all knowledge upon you in order to pass along his legacy to future generations. I know it sounds a little crazy, but you can use it to open doors for yourself.
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