May 5, 1998

One of the most frequent recommendations offered is to find a mentor. I have 13 years' experience starting as a programmer/analyst in the defense industry in the mid-80's and moving up to my current position as business analyst for the world's largest Industrial pump manufacturer. Broad technology knowledge is not the issue; figuring out what qualities to look for in a mentor remains a bit unclear. What do you recommend?

Look around you for the one or two people who are getting the results you aspire to. My list of mentor criteria are as follows: Someone who can create opportunities rather than waiting for them to happen; can function on simple yet core values of respecting people and thus when he/she pushes back, a mutual respect is reciprocated; and has developed a variety of core technical skills yet has worked hard at the professional polish. Don't re-invent the wheel; model yourself after those that are getting results today and save valuable time in your career development. Identify a mentor who is viewed as a business executive first and a technologist second.

More Questions: How can I avoid the pitfalls of becoming a manager? Should I focus on a business or technology career path?

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