Seed post — draft in APA voice. Replace bracketed items and verify program specifics before publishing. Author: APA to supply.
“Find a mentor” is common advice — and often unhelpful, because it rarely explains what a mentor is for. Here’s a clearer picture, and how to make the relationship worth both people’s time.
A mentor is a sounding board, not a shortcut
A good mentor won’t hand you a job or make decisions for you. What they will do is help you see your situation more clearly, share what worked (and failed) for them, and open doors to people you couldn’t reach alone.
Come with specifics
The members who get the most from mentorship don’t show up asking “can you help my career?” They come with a real question: Should I take this role? How do I ask for a promotion? Why do my interviews stall at the final round? Specific questions get specific, useful answers.
Do the work between sessions
Mentorship compounds when you act. If your mentor suggests reworking your resume or reaching out to someone, do it — then report back. Progress keeps the relationship energised for both of you.
Respect their time, and give back
Be punctual, be prepared, and say thank you. And remember: today’s mentee is tomorrow’s mentor. The strongest professional communities are built by people who were helped and then chose to help.
How APA’s Mentorship Program works
Our program pairs experienced professionals with members earlier in their journey, with structured connections through our chapters and events. [APA to add: how to sign up, cadence, current intake dates.]
Have you had a mentor who changed your trajectory? Tell us what made it work — we’d love to hear it.