Have you seen 'Karate Kid', Mr Miyagi is the Karate master (portrayed by Pat Morita) who mentors Daniel LaRusso and Julie Pierce. Mr Miyagi offers insights, challenges the thinking of the youngsters, equips them for the challenges ahead and boosts their confidence when things get tough. He's in their corner to the end! You need your very own Mr Miyagi of business! You could ask a friend or neighbour or take a systematic approach as below

• Ask for recommendations and do an online search. Look for one that has testimonials from previous mentees and a clear pricing plan. Don’t get stuck with someone you cannot get on with and be paying for their vacation!

• Ask for a Taster Session: You would never consider working for someone without a trial period or marrying someone before some kind of engagement. It’s a period to make sure you are both compatible. Test drive your mentor- ask for a free session and go from there.

• Respect your mentor: The foundation lies in compatibility. Just like romantic relationships, mentors and mentees thrive when their skills, goals, and personalities align. Seek someone whose expertise complements your needs, and don't shy away from exploring beyond your niche - transferable skills hold immense value.

• Agree on Terms of Engagement: Open communication is key. Discuss meeting frequency, confidentiality, and your end goals. Are sessions virtual or in-person? Can you contact your mentor between sessions? Establish clear boundaries and expectations to set the stage for a successful partnership.

• Set Goals: Your Roadmap to Success: Each session should have a purpose. Start with updates on previous actions and set new goals. This keeps you on track and allows you to measure progress towards your overall objective. Remember, even the biggest goals are achieved through focused steps.

• Trust & Growth: Effective communication requires honesty and respect. Speak up about concerns, listen actively, and be receptive to feedback. Remember, true success is built on integrity, both personally and professionally.

• Have Confidence in your mentor: A good mentor has been around the track before. Trust their advice. A good mentor can be your confidence booster. Whether it's, making a strategic decision, pitching an idea, making tough decisions, or simply stepping outside your comfort zone, their guidance can empower you to achieve more.

Are you ready to start your journey to success?