Career Coaching Benefits

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my career, but my approach to building a network of mentors has evolved over time. Early on, I thought the best mentors were those who mirrored my role—essentially a more successful, more experienced version of myself. But I’ve since realized that this myopic approach often misses the mark. Some of the most valuable mentors I’ve had weren’t in venture capital at all. They came from adjacent industries like asset management, tackling challenges that are analogous to mine but offering perspectives I couldn’t see from within my own field. Here’s why this works: 1. Outside perspectives reveal blind spots: Mentors outside your industry can identify dynamics in your business that might be invisible to you because you're too close to them. These insights are invaluable for seeing the bigger picture. 2. Diverse thinking adds depth: A broader, more diverse network of mentors exposes you to new ways of solving problems, offering frameworks and strategies you might not encounter within your immediate circle. Building a mentor base is critical, but diversity is key. Don’t just look for people who are “you in 20 years” with more success. Instead, seek mentors with fresh perspectives and different lenses. That’s where the real value lies.

Early in my career, I thought hard work alone would get me ahead. But the truth? The biggest career accelerators aren’t just effort—they’re relationships, guidance, and access. -Employees with mentors are promoted 5x faster (Harvard Business Review). -76% of professionals say mentorship is key to success—but only 37% actually have a mentor (Forbes). -People with strong mentors earn 25% more, on average, than those without one (CNBC). Still think you can figure it all out alone? The hard truth: Talent and hard work alone won’t cut it. The most successful people? They had someone who believed in them, pushed them forward, and helped them sidestep years of trial and error. I know because I’ve lived it. I’ve had mentors who saw my potential before I did. Who helped me navigate the corporate maze, avoid dead ends, and level up in ways I couldn’t have done alone. And now, I do the same for others. When I started LS International, it wasn’t just about filling executive roles—it was about building careers that last. Because getting placed is one thing, but thriving? That’s the real game. That’s why I built LS Elevate , that gives professionals what I wish I had earlier: 💡 Direct access to top leaders who’ve been in your shoes 💡 Insider insights on leadership, career growth, and industry trends 💡 A network that doesn’t just exist, but actually works for you Because here’s the deal: Your next career breakthrough won’t come from a LinkedIn job post. It’ll come from the right mentor who pushes you into rooms you didn’t even know existed. So, if you don’t have one yet, what are you waiting for? LS International #upskilling #mentorship #mentoring #networking

When you need to get advice, where do you turn? Having a good network can expand your reach and opportunities, but there are times when you need a core team—people who will actively support your personal and professional development. They’ll keep you grounded, challenge your thinking, help you see blind spots, fill gaps where you lack expertise, push you to grow, and celebrate your wins along the way. A well-rounded team can be a game-changer. Here are some key roles to consider: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿: Someone ahead of you who provides wisdom, guidance, and lessons from experience. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵: The person who helps you develop specific skills, offering structured guidance and accountability. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿: A natural networker who introduces you to key people and opportunities. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿: The friend or colleague who plays devil’s advocate, pushing you to think critically and refine your ideas. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿: The peer who works alongside you on projects, bringing complementary skills. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿: Your family or friends who provide emotional support, celebrating your wins and encouraging you through setbacks. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗲: Someone you mentor in return, strengthening your leadership skills, and from whom you can also learn.   Do you have that core team? Do they fit different molds than the ones on this list?

Navigating the early stages of a career can be both exciting and challenging for young women. Having a mentor during this critical time can make a significant difference. Here’s are a few reasons why mentorship is so important: 1. Guidance and Advice: A mentor provides valuable guidance and advice based on their own experiences. They can help young women navigate complex career decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed choices that align with their goals. 2. Building Confidence: Starting a career can be daunting, and self-doubt is common. A mentor offers encouragement and support, helping young women build the confidence they need to take on new challenges and seize opportunities. 3. Networking Opportunities: Mentors often have extensive professional networks and can introduce their mentees to key contacts in their industry. These connections can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and career advancements. 4. Skill Development: Mentors can identify areas for improvement and provide constructive feedback. They can also recommend resources, training, and experiences that will help young women develop the skills needed to succeed in their chosen field. 5. Career Advancement: Research shows that individuals with mentors are more likely to advance in their careers. Mentors can advocate for their mentees, recommend them for promotions, and provide insights into career advancement strategies. If you’re a young woman navigating your career, consider seeking out a mentor. Their guidance, support, and insights can be invaluable as you work towards your professional goals. And if you’re an experienced professional, think about becoming a mentor. Your experience and wisdom can have a profound impact on the next generation of leaders. Please reach out and I can help match you with a mentorship opportunity that works for your schedule. Together, we can create a supportive network that empowers young women to achieve their full potential. #nationalmentoringmonth #mentoringmatters

In your career so far, did you choose people who will say your name in a room full of opportunities? 💭 Surround yourself with those who believe in your potential and advocate for your growth. Your network can be a catalyst for success, helping you navigate challenges and celebrate achievements. Seek out mentors, peers, and leaders who lift you up and open doors you might not have known existed. As you cultivate meaningful relationships, remember to pay it forward and uplift others in return. 🎢 I want to share a personal story that underscores the power of building the right network. A few years ago, I was facing a challenging career transition. Unsure of my next steps, I reached out to a mentor who knew my aspirations and had always supported my journey. They introduced me to others in their network who could offer guidance and support in the field I wanted to pursue. 🙏🏻 This introduction led to a new opportunity that eventually transformed my career path. Not only did I gain valuable insights, but I also formed lasting relationships that continue to shape my professional growth today. This experience taught me the importance of surrounding myself with people who genuinely want to see me succeed. 🏆 Let this be a reminder to choose your network wisely and be intentional about the connections you make. Invest in the right connections today, and watch your future flourish! ⏰

Ever feel like you're navigating your STEM journey alone? Engineer Mary Seelam gets it. Early in her career, she often felt like she was charting unfamiliar territory without a map. That changed when she discovered the power of mentorship, and her story holds practical wisdom for every girl and woman in STEM. Mary learned that finding mentors requires boldness and intention. She started by identifying people whose paths inspired her, whether through their leadership style, technical expertise, or how they handled tough situations. Then she did something crucial: she reached out, asked questions, and showed genuine interest in learning from their experiences. Some mentors said yes immediately, others took time, but every connection taught her patience and perseverance. Here's where it gets even better. As Mary gained experience, she realized mentorship flows both ways. Supporting younger engineers, sharing lessons from her own missteps, and celebrating their wins created a network that lifted everyone up. The relationships grew stronger because knowledge, encouragement, and support moved in all directions. Want to build your own mentorship network? Mary shares four key steps: 🔹 Be proactive — Don't wait for mentorship to find you; seek out people who can offer guidance and insight 🔹 Be specific in your requests — Asking targeted questions makes it easier for mentors to offer meaningful advice 🔹 Show gratitude and stay engaged — Relationships thrive when you appreciate their time and continue the conversation beyond a single meeting 🔹 Offer mentorship when you can — Sharing your experiences not only helps others, but also reinforces your own learning The big takeaway? Mentorship builds confidence and provides perspective when you face challenges. A strong network isn't built overnight; it grows through consistent effort, trust, and mutual support. And when women in STEM give and receive mentorship, it strengthens the entire community. Mary's message to fellow women in STEM is powerful: "Seek mentors who challenge and inspire you, and offer your guidance to those just starting their journey. Remember, your network is not just a resource — it's a source of resilience, learning, and shared growth. Each connection you make can lift you up and, in turn, help lift someone else." Read the full article for more insights on building meaningful mentorship relationships! 👉 https://lnkd.in/e9-8ruKx #WomenInSTEM #GirlsInSTEM #STEMGems #GiveGirlsRoleModels 💎 Mary's insights on mentorship remind us why role models and supportive networks matter so much for girls in STEM. That's exactly what we've been building at STEM Gems for the past decade — creating connections, celebrating women in science and engineering, and empowering the next generation of innovators. Learn more about our decade of impact and donate to STEM Gems here: https://lnkd.in/ed-nJVsN

Support is crucial for early-career folks and startup founders. In fact, having advocates can make or break your startup or career. Given the below strategies, it’s no surprise why: → Alumni networks are goldmines of experienced mentors → The amount of peers, alumni and students I have made connections with makes people question if I really am an introvert! → Industry events are perfect for connecting with potential advocates → Something VERY cool is coming soon, stay tuned! cc: Carrie Li → Online communities help you reach out to industry leaders → Daniel has helped 1000s of students get their first jobs easier: https://lnkd.in/gt5PCntx All of this is quite powerful. So, how do we find these crucial mentors? Leverage alumni networks: • Your school's alumni association is full of professionals eager to give back • Reach out to alumni who have succeeded in your field • Attend alumni events and engage actively Eg. Chedia manages the ISTM Alumni community which is a ⭐️ resource! Attend industry events: • Conferences and meetups are ideal for networking • Connect with speakers and attendees who share your passions • Follow up with potential mentors after the event Eg. Sylvia's FOMO-inducing meetups is something you don't want to miss! Engage in online communities: • Join LinkedIn groups or specialized forums • Participate in discussions and share your insights • Identify and reach out to industry leaders for mentorship Remember, the right mentor doesn't just advise - they advocate. They fight for you when you're not there, lending their credibility to your vision and amplifying your voice. As a student, your mentor's support and advocacy can open doors you didn't even know existed. They’re in your corner, even when you're not in the room.

Going from leader to mentor builds a 2-way street to success: Here's why the best leaders are also the best teachers. The mutual learning process is key to rapid growth. Both mentor and mentee gain valuable insights. Mentorship isn't just career advice. It's a career accelerator. Here's how to find and create game-changing mentor relationships: 1. Know your growth areas • Identify specific skills you need to improve • Example: "I need to get better at financial modeling for pitches" 2. Find the right mentors • Look beyond LinkedIn - attend conferences and join forums • Find successful people who aren't in the spotlight • Consider mentors from different industries for new ideas 3. Make a strong first impression • Mention their work that impressed you • Show how their skills match your career needs • Share an insight about their work to start the conversation 4. Be ready for each meeting • Write a brief summary of your goals and progress • Update them on how you've used their previous advice • Prepare 2-3 situations where you need their help 5. Give back to your mentor • Test their new products or projects • Introduce them to new talent in their areas of interest • Help build their personal brand through speaking or writing 6. Build a diverse mentor network • Mix long-term mentors with short-term advisors • Example: An industry expert, a tech guru, and a rotating specialist • Review your mentor relationships every 6 months 7. Set clear goals • Use objectives and key results to guide your relationship • Check progress every three months • Be open about your career moves and ask for their advice 8. Learn from mentors indirectly • Study their career choices through research • Try out one strategy from each mentor every month • Keep a log of what you learn and how it helps you grow The best mentorship relationships evolve into collaborative partnerships. Aim to reach a point where you're brainstorming solutions together, not just receiving advice. P.S. If you found this valuable, repost for your network ♻️ Join the 12,000+ leaders who get our weekly email newsletter: https://lnkd.in/en9vxeNk Lead with impact.

Building a support network is crucial for first-time founders, yet many overlook this vital step. Let's dive into why mentors are the secret weapon every entrepreneur needs. My 5 key takeaways on the power of mentorship: 1. Experience Shortcut - Mentors have been through the trenches - They can help you avoid common pitfalls - Their wisdom can save you years of trial and error 2. Network Expansion - Mentors open doors to their connections - This can lead to potential investors, partners, or customers - A strong network is often the difference between success and failure 3. Emotional Support - Founding a company is a rollercoaster - Mentors provide a listening ear during tough times - They offer perspective when you're too close to the problem 4. Skill Development - Identify your weaknesses and find mentors to fill those gaps - Learn critical skills like fundraising, team building, and strategic planning - Accelerate your growth as a leader and entrepreneur 5. Accountability Partner - Mentors hold you accountable to your goals - They push you out of your comfort zone - Regular check-ins ensure you're making progress, not just staying busy Remember, mentorship isn't a one-way street. The best relationships are mutually beneficial. Be prepared to offer value in return, whether it's fresh perspectives, energy, or connections to a younger demographic. Don't wait for mentors to find you. Be proactive in seeking them out. Attend industry events, join startup communities, and don't be afraid to reach out to people you admire. Building a strong support network takes time and effort, but it's an investment that pays dividends throughout your entrepreneurial journey. Start today, and watch your chances of success multiply.

Yesterday I had a call with a former employee of mine who is struggling because she has nobody to mentor her at her current company. This is a topic near and dear to my heart: the undeniable power of external networking and mentorship, especially when internal guidance might be scarce. We've all been there – new to a role, or perhaps in a company where formal leadership development or mentorship programs aren't a priority. It's easy to feel like you're adrift, wondering how to best develop your skills and advance your career. My biggest piece of advice? Don't limit your growth to the confines of your current organization. Actively seek out mentors and build a robust network outside your company. These external connections can provide: Diverse Perspectives: Unbiased insights and different ways of thinking about challenges. Skill Development: Guidance on areas your current role might not expose you to. Career Navigation: Advice on potential paths and opportunities you might not have considered. Confidence Boost: A sounding board and encouragement when you need it most. Your professional development is ultimately in your hands. Be proactive, reach out, and invest in building those invaluable external relationships. They can truly be the secret sauce for accelerated growth and long-term success. Share your thoughts and tips below. Let's empower each other to grow, no matter our internal circumstances.