How to Find a Business Mentor
Finding a business mentor can be one of the most valuable steps in your entrepreneurial journey.
A great mentor provides insights, shares their real-world experience, and offers a steady voice when you’re navigating new challenges.
But it's hard to figure out who's the best fit for you in a world full of Instagram posts and “one-size-fits-all” business coaches shouting their programs from the rooftops.
Here are my top tips to help you cut through the noise and find the right mentor to lean on.
4 Steps to Find a Business Advisor You’ll Love
1. Get Clear on Your Goals For Business Mentorship
The first step in finding a mentor is understanding exactly why you need one.
Are you looking to scale, improve your management skills, or navigate a new industry phase?
When you’re specific about what you want to achieve, you’re more likely to find a mentor who aligns with those needs.
I recommend you write down your top goals and areas for growth, then ask potential mentors about their experience in these areas.
2. Look Beyond Your Business Industry & Niche
It’s natural to think you need a mentor within your industry, but there’s enormous value in finding someone who can bring a fresh perspective.
After being coached and coaching many entrepreneurs, we notice that being in the same industry has very little to do with it!
Since most best practices and strategies apply across industries, it’s better to prioritize mentors who know the type of work you’re focusing on and who have succeeded in the skills you aim to develop.
For example, if you’re running a fitness business, a tech founder can help you think creatively or streamline operations in ways others in your field might overlook. As a result, you get a leg up over your competitors!
And no matter what, prioritize someone who has done it themselves—their experience facing high-stakes decisions and overcoming challenges will make their guidance that much more applicable.
3. Find a Business Mentor Who “Gets” You
This one’s crucial—your mentor should be someone you feel comfortable and connected with.
Business mentorship is a relationship; finding a mentor you like and respect is critical.
Look for someone still on their journey but a few steps ahead. They’ll remember what it’s like to be in your shoes and will relate to your experiences with more empathy and insight.
When a mentor shares your values, that connection will be stronger, making the knowledge-sharing flow more naturally and authentically.
4. Be Willing to Invest in Mentorship, But Check the ROI
Mentorship isn’t always free; sometimes, investing in a coach or advisor is the right move.
Consider a paid mentorship if you’re serious about leveling up and haven’t found a mentor in your network. That said, be realistic about the ROI. If someone charges you $10k upfront, ask about their results with past clients.
While there’s no guarantee, make sure you’re clear on what a reasonable outcome looks like.
In the Market for a Business Mentor?
If you’re actively looking for a business mentor right now but you want someone who’s been there and done it, I’d love to connect.
As founder of The Boutique COO, I assembled a team of business growth advisors who can provide perspective and guidance on challenges you might face as your business grows. We built our own seven-figure businesses, so we know how to help you reach your business goals.
Schedule a free intro chat with me to learn more about my practical, down-to-earth mentorship approach!
