Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever And How to Choose the Right Mentor
Mentorship is a tool that can be used to advance you career and also provide clarity. In Episode 9 of the Oh Hell No...Not My Data podcast, Janet Heins shared one of the most important truths about mentorship: you need to know exactly what you want from a mentor before you sit down with them. That single insight changes everything. When you’re intentional, your conversations become more focused, your growth becomes more targeted, and your mentor’s time becomes far more impactful.
Janet’s point was simple but powerful; mentors aren’t mind readers. If you come into the relationship unsure of what you want, you’ll walk away with vague advice and missed opportunities. But when you come in with clarity, you unlock guidance that’s specific, actionable, and aligned with your goals.
Ask yourself:
-What skill am I trying to build
-What decision am I trying to make
-What perspective do I need that I don’t currently have
This clarity is the foundation of every successful mentorship relationship.
Where to find mentors - Not every mentor needs to come from your employer. In fact, some of the best mentors come from communities where people are already invested in growth and knowledge‑sharing. You can find mentors at the following places:
- Professional associations - i.e., ISACA, WicYs, Blacks in Cybersecurity
- Industry events and conferences
- Online mentorship programs
- Community Slack or Discord groups
- Local Meetups
These spaces are filled with people who want to share what they know and who often have the time and energy to invest in someone’s growth.
How to Choose a Mentor at Work- Finding a mentor inside your organization requires a different strategy. You’re not just looking for someone senior, you’re looking for someone aligned with your goals, your values, and your growth trajectory.
Below is a list of what you want in a mentor:
- Someone who is already doing what you want to be doing
- Someone who has influence, not just experience
- Someone who communicates clearly
- Someone who genuinely invests in people
- Someone who respects boundaries
Mentorship isn’t about finding someone who has all the answers, it’s about finding someone who helps you ask better questions. Janet Heins reminded us that clarity is the key to unlocking the full value of mentorship. Whether you find your mentor inside your organization or out in the broader cybersecurity community, the right relationship can reshape your career.
