This week our team attended the Bizwomen #MentoringMonday, hosted by the New York Business Journal. This national event was just one of 43 that was held by Business Journals across the country, involving thousands of women mentors and mentees.
I got to play a special part in the day’s event, acting as a mentor to over 100 New York attendees. If it weren’t for my own mentor, I wouldn’t be where I am today, so I’m grateful I was able to give back at this year’s event. Here are some of the key takeaways from the day.
Get involved
By becoming an active member in communities that are meaningful to both your personal and professional interests, you can not only build a strong professional network, but also gain valuable advice to push yourself to new places in life. Join a meetup group, start a club within your workplace or even become a mentor yourself. Whatever it might be don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and get out of your comfort zone.
Map it out
A lot of people just getting started in their career often ask me how do you know if you’re shaping the right career path. My answer? Don’t only map out what you’d like to do, but also make a mental note of what you don’t like, whether it be skill sets or environments. By doing this you can better inform your own path and determine what’s best for you as you progress in your career.
Network, network, network
Remember, your network is your new net worth. Connect with people on LinkedIn, ask questions and don’t be afraid to get out there! When approaching a new connection, start off with what value you can provide them and oftentimes you’ll find you can get that right back.
Mentoring allows us to lift each other up, building powerful networks and creating long-lasting relationships along the way. By focusing on advancing each other, we can ultimately gain so much more value in our own careers.
- Tiffany Guarnaccia, Founder and CEO