THE BENEFITS OF CROSS-INDUSTRY MENTORING : HOW DIVERSE MENTORS CAN HELP YOU GROW

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. 

– Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

Steve Jobs had a mentor named Robert Friedland, who was not from the tech industry but rather from the mining industry. Friedland’s unique perspective on business and entrepreneurship helped shape Jobs’ approach to innovation and design. 

Friedland taught Jobs the importance of being innovative and pushing boundaries, even if it meant going against conventional wisdom. He also emphasized the importance of paying attention to detail; something Jobs would later become known for in his design work. Jobs credits Friedland with helping him develop the skills and mindset crucial to his success in the tech industry.

Imagine a life where you’re not just limited to your industry or field, but you have a mentor who brings fresh ideas and perspectives from a completely different industry. A life where you’re constantly learning and expanding your skillset, broadening your network, and gaining new insights into your work. Valuable insights and perspectives that facilitate individual growth in their careers or businesses can be gained from having a mentor from a different industry. 

The advantages of cross-industry mentoring will be explored in this blog post, including its ability to aid in developing new skills, expanding networks, and acquiring fresh perspectives.

Benefits of Cross-Industry Mentoring

Cross-industry mentoring is a unique opportunity for individuals to gain knowledge and expertise from someone outside of their industry. Here are some of the benefits of cross-industry mentoring:

Develop New Skills

A mentor from a different industry can help an individual develop new skills by sharing their knowledge and expertise. This can help individuals broaden their skill sets, making them more versatile and adaptable in their careers or businesses.

Expand Your Network

Working with a mentor from a different industry can also help individuals expand their networks. Mentors can introduce individuals to new people and opportunities, opening doors to new connections and collaborations.

Gain New Perspectives

A mentor from a different industry can bring a fresh perspective to an individual’s career or business. They can provide new insights and ideas that the individual may not have considered before, helping them see their work differently.

How to Find a Cross-Industry Mentor

Finding a cross-industry mentor may seem daunting, but there are several ways to make it easier. Here are some tips on where to look for a mentor from a different industry and how to approach them:

Join Professional Organizations

In a study by LinkedIn, 85% of professionals said they build stronger relationships through face-to-face interactions

Professional organizations are great places to meet people from different industries. Attend events, workshops, and seminars these organizations host to network with individuals from other industries.

Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn is an excellent tool for finding and connecting with professionals from different industries. Use the search function to find individuals who work in industries that interest you and reach out to them to request a meeting.

Ask for Referrals

Ask your current mentors, colleagues, or friends if they know anyone in a different industry willing to mentor you. They may refer you to someone who can help.

Building a Cross-Industry Mentoring Relationship

By 2024, 80% of technology products and services will be built by those who are not technology professionals, according to Gartner, Inc. Building a positive and effective mentoring relationship is vital to maximizing the benefits of cross-industry mentoring.

 Here are some best practices for building a successful mentoring relationship:

Be Open and Honest

Be open and honest about your goals and expectations for the mentoring relationship. This will help ensure that both parties are on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Establish Clear Communication

Establish clear communication channels with your mentor. This can include regular meetings, phone calls, or emails. Make sure to keep your mentor updated on your progress and any challenges you may be facing.

Respect Your Mentor’s Time

Respect your mentor’s time by being punctual and prepared for meetings. Make sure to come to meetings with a clear agenda and a list of topics to discuss.

Cross-industry mentoring is a valuable tool for individuals looking to grow in their careers or businesses. It can help individuals develop new skills, expand their networks, and gain new perspectives. By following these tips on finding a cross-industry mentor and building a successful mentoring relationship, individuals can maximize the benefits of cross-industry mentoring and achieve their goals. 

Remember, seeking diverse mentors is essential for personal and professional growth.

 References 

Steve Job’s Story : https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Steve-Jobs/Walter-Isaacson/9781451648539