How to Approach a Mentor for Assistance: A Step-by-Step Guide
It is to your advantage to make the most out of your meetings with alumni contacts. Decide in advance what you want to gain from the meetings. By asking about the mentor's employment history and current practice, you will be able to strengthen the focus of your job search and career plan. When networking, it is not appropriate to ask your contacts for jobs. However, it is reasonable to expect the following:
- information
- referrals to others who can help you
- feedback about resumes, cover letters, and interviewing skills
- assistance in formulating a career plan
- moral support
STEP #1 - SELF ASSESSMENT
Before you choose an alumni mentor you should consider the practice areas that are of interest to you, as well as your academic and professional strengths. Researching the alumni/ae and the firms at which they work will further focus your meeting and make the most of the time that you spend with your mentor.
STEP #2 - APPROACHING A CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE
- Contact your mentor in the way that he/she specified on the mentor registration form. If you write a letter, state who you are, how you got the mentor’s name and why you are writing to him/her. Tell him/her that you will follow-up with a phone call to schedule a time to meet and then follow-up!
- When you call, tell the alumnus/a a little bit about yourself and why you are calling. Ask if you can meet with him/her for 15-20 minutes to obtain information and advice.
- If by email, do the same as above.
- Keep a record of all contacts that you make. It is a good idea to keep a file card for each contact, with his/her name, employer, phone number, address, dates of contact, and follow-up action taken.
STEP #3 -THE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW
- You must be responsible for leading the discussion.
- Explain why you are there and how you think the person can be of assistance to you.
- Talk about your background, skills and interests. Be sure to bring extra copies of your resume.
- Ask for the names of others who may be helpful.
- Do not go over the allotted time unless the mentor initiates further conversation.
During the informational interview you may want to ask questions such as:
(a) How did you get started in this area of practice?
(b) What do you like and dislike about it?
(c) What do you suggest I do to prepare for a career in this area?
(d) What is a typical day in the office like?
(e) Does my resume market me effectively to employers in this area of law?
STEP #4 - MAINTAINING YOUR NETWORK
- Be sure to write a letter thanking the mentor for his/her time. If you have taken any steps as a result of your conversation with the alumnus/a, such as contacting a referral, be sure to let him/her know.
- Any time there is a change in your career status, inform all of your contacts with a note or a telephone call. They will not be able to let you know about opportunities down the road if they lose track of you or if they assume that you no longer need their help.
