Mentorship for Women: How to Find a Mentor — and Become One

In today's fast-paced world of business and career building, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities, mentorship has become one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and professional success. And it's not just about finding a mentor and learning - it's also about becoming one for others. Both roles are crucial, especially in the realm of women's leadership and development.

In this article, I want to share my personal experience, reflections, and practical advice on how to find a role model and the right mentor as a woman, how to build a meaningful relationship with them, and - just as importantly - how to become an inspiring mentor yourself. Because the more successful women there are, the more successful women there will be.

Why Do You Need a Mentor?

There are fewer successful women than men. That's a historical fact. Why? The reasons are many - from socioeconomic to psychological - and each deserves its own article. But one key reason, especially relevant to our topic, is this: men have always had more visible examples of success. It's simply easier for them to see what success looks like and to model themselves after those examples.

Women, on the other hand, still face a shortage of role models. Just look at the covers of glossy magazines - it becomes clear how few stories are told of diverse female career paths and strategies. For women striving for success, this lack of representation can feel like a gaping void. That's why, if you have achieved success, becoming a mentor and showing other women how it can be done is more than just generous - it's almost a sacred duty.

Women continue to face unique challenges in the workplace: gender stereotypes, bias in hiring or promotion, and the constant need to balance professional ambition with family responsibilities. In all these complex - or simply emotionally difficult - situations, a mentor can become a compass, a guide, and a source of unwavering support, helping women navigate obstacles and fully unlock their potential.

Personally, mentorship has played a decisive role in shaping my career. One of my mentors recognized my hidden talents and encouraged me to explore coaching, which eventually led me to Marilyn Atkinson - the brilliant founder of Ericksonian coaching based in Canada. Months of intensive training with her gave me powerful tools to work with my own inner states, fears, and doubts.

I've also had many mentors from the U.S., including renowned entrepreneurs and even multimillionaires. For me, other people - with their incredible, complex, and often dramatic journeys - are an endless source of inspiration and practical wisdom. What could be more valuable than someone who's already walked the path, taking your hand and showing you the way?

How to Find the Right Mentor: A Step-by-Step Guide

A mentor doesn't simply fall from the sky. Finding one is a deliberate process of identifying someone with whom you share mutual respect, understanding, and aligned values and goals. Think of it like finding a great friend - someone who supports, uplifts, and helps you grow.

Here are the steps that will guide you:

1. Define Your Goals and Needs Clearly

Before you begin the search, ask yourself some key questions:

• What do I want to achieve in my career?

• What skills or knowledge do I need to develop?

• What obstacles do I want to overcome?

The clearer your goals and needs, the easier it will be to find someone with relevant experience and insights. For example, if you want to master public speaking, look for a mentor who's a successful speaker. If you're building a business, find someone who has already created and scaled their own company. Simple logic - and it works.

2. Start With Your Existing Network

You don't need to search for strangers right away. Look around - your ideal mentor might already be in your circle. Think: former managers, colleagues, university professors, successful alumni, business partners, or simply people you admire and respect.

Ask yourself:

• Who has the experience I need?

• Who is likely to share their knowledge with me?

3. Tap Into Professional Communities and Events

Attend conferences, seminars, training sessions, masterclasses - anything relevant to your field. These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential mentors, expand your network, and find inspiring individuals.

Don't hesitate to approach speakers, ask questions, and share your own thoughts. Authentic engagement can open surprising doors.

4. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help or Guidance

Many successful people are more than willing to support others - but they need to be asked. Don't be shy about reaching out. The key is to make a respectful and well-formulated request:

• Show your commitment to growth

• Explain why this person would be an ideal mentor

• Prepare for the conversation - share your goals, ask thoughtful questions, and express appreciation for their time and experience

5. Be Flexible About Mentorship Formats

Mentorship doesn't always mean formal, long-term relationships with scheduled meetings. It could be:

• A one-off consultation

• Advice during a tough decision

• Feedback on a project

• Or even a single, transformative conversation

You can also work with a mentor regularly - e.g., set a roadmap together and check in monthly. It all depends on your availability and the mentor's preferences.

6. Leverage Online Platforms and Social Media

Use LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook - explore people whose work inspires you.

• Follow their posts

• Comment thoughtfully

• Reach out with genuine curiosity and interest

These platforms offer direct access to a wide range of professionals who may become part of your journey - if you approach them with authenticity.

7. Don't Forget the Greatest Library of Mentors: History and Culture

Sometimes we limit ourselves to people we know, forgetting we live in an age where all human wisdom is just a few clicks away.

Think of the countless leaders, thinkers, and creators whose life stories are preserved in books, documentaries, and interviews. They can be your mentors too.

From Julius Caesar, with his military and political genius, to Benjamin Franklin, a symbol of lifelong learning and reinvention.

Explore biographies, autobiographies, and documentaries - absorb their strategies, mindsets, and motivations.

By analyzing the lives of these great figures, you can learn from the best - and it costs you nothing but time and the desire to grow.

How to Become an Inspiring Mentor for Other Women

If you've already achieved meaningful success in your career and gathered valuable experience, it might be time to become a mentor yourself. This is not only a noble way to give back, but also an incredible opportunity for personal growth, leadership development, and community building.

But mentorship is not about "telling others what to do." It's about creating a supportive space where another woman can discover her potential and believe in herself.

Here's how to begin:

1. Be an Expert in Your Field

This is fundamental. Before guiding others, ensure that you're recognized in your domain. Build real experience. Achieve tangible results. Keep learning and evolving.

Attend conferences, read specialized literature, and take advanced courses. Never settle. For instance, Oprah Winfrey went from a difficult childhood to becoming one of the most influential women in media. Her career, built on authenticity and resilience, is a powerful model for building a personal brand and impact.

Your professional authority is the foundation of your mentorship. Invest in it.

2. Share Your Knowledge Publicly and Consistently

Having knowledge is not enough. You must make it visible and accessible:

• Create valuable content: Write articles, blog posts, record podcasts or videos. Share insights, case studies, and practical tips.
  Like Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post, who speaks openly about business, wellness, and media, inspiring those seeking balance and impact.

• Speak at events: Be a panelist, keynote speaker, or workshop facilitator. Your presence will attract mentees and establish your authority.
  Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Facebook, is a great example - she uses global platforms to speak on leadership and gender equity.

• Use social media wisely: Maintain professional profiles, engage with your audience, and contribute to discussions.
  Natalia Vodianova uses her platforms not only for fashion but for philanthropy, offering a powerful example of purpose-driven influence.
  
  

3. Develop Strong Communication and Empathy Skills

Mentorship is a relationship - and relationships thrive on empathy.

• Learn to listen deeply

• Ask thoughtful questions

• Offer constructive, kind feedback

• Be patient and adaptable

• Tailor your approach to each mentee's personality and needs

Your role isn't to impose answers, but to guide, support, and empower.

4. Initiate or Join Mentorship Programs

If you're ready, launch your own mentorship program - within your company, community, or online.

Major companies like Google and Microsoft have internal mentorship initiatives for women. You can create a similar framework in your environment.

Offer:

• One-on-one or group sessions

• Webinars or live Q&As

• Online communities or workshops

Structure is helpful - but a genuine connection is key.

5. Be the Role Model You Wish You Had

Your behavior speaks louder than words. Demonstrate:

• Professionalism

• Integrity

• Curiosity

• Positive mindset

Show that it's possible to be successful, self-assured, and fulfilled without sacrificing your values.

Be honest and open - share your wins and your struggles. Your mentees will respect your humanity as much as your expertise.

Once, during a session with a mentor, he asked me, "How do you talk to yourself?"

I was stunned. I realized that I had been internalizing feedback from others and turning it into harsh self-criticism. That one question changed everything. It taught me how deeply our inner dialogue affects our outer confidence.

When you become a mentor - ask this question. It might open a door your mentee never knew was closed.

Mentorship Is Not a Trend - It's a Transformation

Whether you're searching for a mentor or ready to become one, remember this: mentorship is a long-term investment in growth, trust, and transformation.

For women especially - striving for leadership and recognition - it's a critical path to fulfillment and success.

Use all the tools the world offers. Learn from the best. And most importantly - become the person you once needed.

And if you're looking for role models and potential mentors, don't miss the upcoming WE Convention in Dubai, November 1-2.

Expect powerful talks and panels featuring extraordinary women from across industries - from global bestselling author Candace Bushnell (Sex and the City) to the legendary Anna Wintour, former Editor-in-Chief of Vogue and the real-life inspiration behind Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada.

This is your chance. Don't miss it - and don't underestimate the life-changing power of mentorship.