Having a model to follow is a valuable way to learn. As a teacher, I knew that telling my class something would have a limited impact. However, modelling the behaviour gave them the ability to see the idea in action and understand it better. We all need mentors in our lives to show us how to do the jobs or roles that we take on. As a newly-retired person, I find myself at a turning point in my work life and looking around for a mentor.
Not New To Mentoring
Mentors were easier to find in my former career. I was very fortunate to be surrounded by a strong group of amazing teachers who had experience and shared it generously with me. In turn, as I became an experienced teacher, I mentored teacher candidates every year. Teaching is a job that requires mentorship for it to be done successfully. No teacher training course can prepare you for the real life of a teacher. You have to see models of it in action. I’m sure many jobs are like this.
Locating Career Mentors When Switching Careers
Unlike teaching, where I was surrounded with people I could see as mentors, I’m on my own now. I have friends who are mentors of retirement. They are been retired for 10 -20 years. I appreciate their willingness to share how to adjust to retired life. However, I don’t have friends that started new jobs after retiring or are self-employed.
Mentors Can Be Any Age
Most mentoring programmes are focused on youth. That makes sense, because finding your first career is a huge step and needs support. People at my stage of life are seen as the mentors and not those in need of mentoring. However, anyone with experience in an area that I want to move into can become my mentor. They do not need to be older than me.
Next Step To Finding A Mentor
Now, I’m at a crossroads. I know that I will need a mentor to help guide me in my next career. I don’t expect to be able to do this by myself. But where do I find a mentor?
To help gain clarity into what your specific mentoring needs are and what your ideal mentor would bring to the table, it’s helpful to list some key points about what you hope their profile and background would look like—or a “wish list,” if you will.*
Tegan Trovato is the founder of Bright Arrow, an executive and team coaching firm.
Time to get out my note pad and make a list. This journey is full of steps and now I know the next one.
*Click here for advice about finding a mentor from a business perspective
Retired, And Now What? 