If you've made it this far, it's probably because you're wondering how to start a mentorship process effectively. And no, I'm not here to tell you the typical “define your goals and make a plan.” We're going beyond that, because if there's one thing I've learned in all these years of consulting and coaching, it's that straight paths only exist on maps. A real mentorship process has curves, shortcuts, and even bumps... and that's what makes it fun.
1. Define the why, not just the what
Most people start with the what: “I want to improve my sales,” “I want to be a better leader,” “I want to find my purpose.” That's fine, but if you don't define the why, you're building a ship without knowing which port you want to reach. When we work together, one of the first questions I will ask you is: Why do you want to improve your sales? Why do you want to be a better leader? The answer usually opens up a range of possibilities and, above all, gives direction to the process.
2. Find the right mentor
A mentor is not just anyone who knows a little more than you about a topic. It’s someone who has already walked that path, stumbled, got back up, and achieved results. And be careful, because here we're not just talking about successes; a good mentor also shares their failures, because that's where real learning happens. Look for someone who speaks with authenticity and challenges you; someone who makes you question even what you thought was unquestionable. And yes, if you don’t feel a bit uncomfortable in the first few sessions, you probably chose wrong.
3. Establish clear rules from the beginning
Clarity avoids misunderstandings. Define schedules, goals, expectations, and above all, the level of commitment. A good mentorship process doesn’t work if one of the two is limping. And here there are no excuses; if you want results, you have to commit to doing the work, and believe me, it’s not going to be easy. But I promise you one thing: it will be worth it.
4. Commitment and action: The magic is in the doing
It’s pointless to leave a session with me thinking “that was a great conversation” if you don't do anything with what you learned afterward. Mentorship is action, pure and simple. If you’re not willing to get your hands dirty, don’t even bother starting, because this isn’t a motivational talk. Here, we come to work.
5. Measure, adjust, and celebrate
What isn’t measured, doesn’t improve. Set clear indicators and constantly review progress. And listen, it's not just about adjusting what’s not working; it’s also about celebrating what does work. Because if you can’t recognize your own achievements, the path becomes steeper than necessary.
A mentorship process is a journey, and like any good journey, the most interesting anecdotes emerge in the unexpected, not the planned. So, if you’re thinking about starting one, I invite you to prepare yourself to question, to grow, and above all, to surprise yourself with what you’re capable of achieving.
