Network for Mentorship

Mentorship is more than advice—it’s a dynamic relationship that fuels personal growth, career momentum, and leadership development. Mentorship should evolve as you do. Whether you’re launching your career, navigating leadership transitions, or seeking to give back, effective mentorship is a two-way street—mentors are people to learn from and lean on. 

Many organizations offer formal mentoring programs—don’t overlook them. These programs often match you with colleagues based on goals, experience, and shared interests.

How to maximize formal mentoring opportunities:

• Opt in early: Express interest and complete any self-assessments or applications thoughtfully.

• Set expectations: Clarify what you’re hoping to gain or offer in the relationship.

• Show up with intention: Consistency and preparation show respect and make the time worthwhile.

• Give feedback: Formal programs improve with honest input—help shape a better experience for others, too.

If your company doesn’t offer a program, consider proposing one or asking your manager (or HR) how to connect with colleagues informally.

Not all mentoring needs to come with a sign-up sheet. Some of the most impactful relationships start with a simple conversation.

Tips for finding and becoming an informal mentor:

• Look around: Peers, former classmates, managers, and even direct reports can become valuable mentors or mentees.

• Be curious and generous: Ask questions, share what you’ve learned, and be open to cross-generational or cross-functional conversations.

• Pay it forward: If you’ve benefited from mentorship, make time to support others. It strengthens your leadership and deepens your Kelley legacy.

• Stay open to reverse mentoring: Younger professionals often bring fresh insights into technology, culture, and trends that can benefit seasoned leaders.

In case this crossed your mind, you're not alone in thinking that asking "Will you be my mentor?" can feel awkward or too formal. And offering to mentor someone directly can sometimes come across as presumptuous or unsolicited.

Here’s how to develop a mentoring relationship organically, without using the “M-word” right away:

Reframe What Mentorship Means

Think of mentorship not as a formal title, but as a series of generous conversations over time. Some mentors may be there for a season or a single decision. Others may stick with you throughout your career. All of them count. 

You don’t need to say “Will you be my mentor?” to start a mentoring relationship. Just start the conversation—and if there’s rapport and trust, mentorship will follow. 

When one mentor isn't enough—create a circle of trusted advisors who challenge, guide, and grow with you.

As your career becomes more complex, you’ll face decisions that impact not just your job, but your values, leadership style, and long-term fulfillment. That’s where a Career Advisory Board comes in.

Unlike a traditional mentor relationship, a Career Advisory Board brings together a small, diverse group of people who each bring a unique perspective to your growth. Think of it as your personal board of directors—people who know you, support you, and hold you accountable to the version of yourself you're working toward.

Why Build a Career Advisory Board?

• You want input from multiple perspectives—functional, generational, and personal

• You’ve outgrown a single mentor or want feedback across different domains (e.g., leadership, industry trends, work-life integration)

• You want a sounding board that evolves with your career

• You’re navigating complexity—new roles, entrepreneurship, career transitions

Who Belongs on Your Board? 

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but a strong Career Advisory Board often includes: 

You don’t need five people right away—start with one or two, and build from there. 

📥 Download the Career Advisory Board Planning Worksheet

Whether you’re seeking guidance or offering it, here are three ways to get started:

1. Reconnect with Kelley classmates and faculty on LinkedIn or through Kelley Alumni events.

2. Start a “mentor coffee challenge”—reach out to one new person a month for a 30-minute chat; no ulterior motive needed, just bring genuine curiosity.

3. Join the Kelley Alumni Network to find or become a mentor based on industry, interests, or geography.

💡 Remember: Mentorship doesn’t require a title—it requires initiative, curiosity, and the willingness to learn together.

Next Step:

📥 Download the Mentorship Network Planning Worksheet