BUSINESS EDU As someone who has been the ben- eficiary of many mentoring relation- ships throughout my career, I’m passionate about developing the next generation of dive professionals for the future of the industry. Last month, I wrote about “6 Advantages of Having a Mentor.” So now, the ob- vious next question for you to con- sider is, “How do I find a mentor that’s right for me?” Make the Most of Mentoring by Taking these Steps: 1. Get clear on your goals for mentoring. Begin with the end in mind by understanding what you hope to accom- plish. What are your career and professional goals? What do you hope to learn from a mentor? What qual- ities will you look for in your ideal mentor? 2.Reach out to the experts in the industry. Start out at the very top. Who are the people in the industry who have done what you hope to accomplish, or even just a part of your goals? While you may not already have ac- cess to some of the industry key players, perhaps some- one in your network does. Who can your certifying agency recommend? Who would your Course Director suggest? Whom have you encountered on trips? While these individuals may not be the right mentor for you, you might find they’re willing to point you in the right direction. If that doesn’t work, ask the next person on your list. The perfect mentor is just waiting for some- one to ask. 3.Show your level of commitment. A world-class ex- pert might only consider working with someone that’s prepared to change the world. They may ask you what you are already doing to move in the direction of your goals. If your ambitions are a little more modest, you may need to convince your potential mentor that you’re serious. Everyone’s time is limited and valuable, and we all want to spend it wisely. Be respectful of the com- mitment you’re asking the mentor to make to you as well. 4.Join a formal program. At DEMA Show 2025, we launched a new formal mentoring program, designed especially for dive pros to connect with mentors. Dive professionals can learn more and apply for Dive Pro
How to Find a Mentor that’s Right for YOU! – by Shelli Hendricks, Ph.D., President, Blue Horizon Solutions
Mentor Center at divebusinessacademy.com, which will kick off officially in January 2026. 5.Be prepared to drive the agenda. Once you have connected with your mentor, we encourage the mentee to take responsibility for driving the agenda for men- toring sessions. Since it’s your goals you will be working on together, it’s respectful to your mentor to do your homework. Give some thought to what goals and ques- tions will you bring? What have you done since last time you spoke? What did you try and how did it go? What steps are you prepared to take next? Finding a mentor will make it possible for you to achieve success quickly and smoothly. A mentor will help you take advantage of the best opportunities and avoid the speed bumps. If you don’t have a mentor, start looking for one today! Everyone has something to learn and something to share with others, so you may want to sign up to be a men- tor as well.
If you need help finding a mentor or achieving any of your career development goals, email me! Happy Mentoring!
email Shelli
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