Why "Connectors" are the New Mentors

Finding the right type of mentor or role model can prove integral to your success at any point in your career. As COO of nTrust, it is a priority of mine to ensure that everyone feels they have someone to rely on for advice and guidance.

While many companies implement an official mentorship program with structured guidelines and pairings, our company’s relaxed organizational structure lends to a more organic approach to mentorship. Our staff are encouraged to get out in the industry and engage with like-minded groups, or attend events that are relevant to their position or personal interests. We have full schedules and are always on the go, so our team is able to benefit from building their networks over a structured, single mentor approach.

In our busy lives, we are seeing more “connectors” than mentors. Connectors are those that genuinely want to strengthen their personal networks; have a passion to share their knowledge; or have someone in their network that is just as passionate and see an opportunity to connect. Your mentors or connectors should be full of infectious passion and energy, and should inspire and assist you in achieving your goals. Building these relationships have proven to be a strong source of support that builds confidence in the person looking for “mentorship”.

It’s important to both maintain these relationships and build new ones as you advance your career. Keep it fresh and continually look for new contacts that can bring a new perspective or teach you something outside of your comfort zone – there is always room for more growth, whether it is within yourself or your network. Building a strong and resourceful network is essential in the journey towards becoming a “connector” or mentor yourself.

There is often a stereotype that comes with mentors that points to a high profile career or long list of notable accomplishments. Most people likely don’t see themselves as a mentor. At any point in one’s career, there are opportunities to share your story with those in your professional network, and you never know who you are inspiring. Many people are likely in the same place you are.

I once received a piece of advice from someone I would classify as a connector: “you are not alone.” Whenever you are struggling with a decision or issue in your career, engaging with others in your network will demonstrate that others go through the same thing and likely have some valuable advice to share. The types of opportunities that can arise through these connections are endless.