We all know that having a mentor is helpful, but it’s not always possible to find that one perfect person to give you the advice you need. Try a different approach: Create a mentor “board of directors,” a group of people to whom you can turn for input and feedback. Start by asking yourself, “Where am I headed professionally, and what skills do I need to get there?” Write down the people you know and respect who have those skills. Think broadly — they could be peers, senior leaders, or even junior employees. For each person, think through how and when you’ll create time to connect. Could you invite them for a monthly lunch? Call them periodically to check in during your drive home? Arrange to meet up at a conference? For these relationships to endure, they’ll need to be reciprocal, so think about the skills and qualities you bring to the table, too.
Credit: HBR
