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.
Adapted from "Your Career Needs Many Mentors, Not Just One," by Dorie Clark
