These days, the competition for IT jobs is fierce. But even harder is advancing your IT career. Degrees, certifications and experience may not be enough to move you to the next level. Occasionally, you may need the wisdom and insight of a pro. A tech sage, who’s fought her way up the ladder and can give you a new perspective. So how can an IT mentor help you?
To begin with, IT mentors can not only impart years of expertise they’ve gained in working in the field, they also have access to a network of business professionals, compounding what they know and sharing who they know. Mentors will undoubtedly have been mentored by experienced professionals who helped them gain a better understanding of the IT industry. Their mentors have "brought them along," enhancing both their strengths and skills.
When you team up with a mentor, you establish a symbiotic relationship. "It is important to remember that this is a two-way relationship. While you are looking to benefit from the mentor, you are also looking to help the mentor," says Imad Lodhi, a veteran of IBM and the outsourcing industry. In most cases, the person being mentored has more to gain, but sometimes, the mentor gains as well. "By helping another person succeed, you help create a brighter future for all of us, and gain the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a difference in someone's life," said Lodhi.
In seeking out a good mentor that’s right for you, look for leadership, approachability and listening skills, advises Michael R. Spano, a Certified Executive Consultant in the IBM CIO Office and mentor. "The qualities that make a good mentor are those that define a great leader," said Spano. Passion for the job is key as well. "Not all leaders or teachers are great mentors, but all great mentors find ways to teach and inspire, without criticism, and are always supportive," says Spano.
Sometimes, it’s hard to find all the qualities you’re looking for in a single mentor. Many young IT novices have more than one mentor: one for IT tech issues, another for management and customer relationship issues. The point is, a skilled and savvy mentor can keep you from “walking into the propeller” when problems come up.
"It is critically important to have a mentor in the area of IT. Having a mentor in this environment allows you to see where your business is heading and then you can begin to build your skills and expertise in the areas they will most need you in the coming years," says Spano.
If you’re working in IT and find yourself stagnating and unable to move up, an IT mentor may be able to help you. They can advise you on everything from training and certifications to avoiding landmines when dealing with customers.
Image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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