How to land a mentor this year: use this script to get the guidance you need

You’ve likely set some big goals for yourself this year.

Maybe you’re thinking…

This is the year I finally get that promotion.

This is the year I speak up in meetings without second-guessing every word.

This is the year I lead that intimidating project and crush it.

Big goals are exciting. But they can also feel a little…terrifying.

Who’s going to help you tackle challenges as they come up? 🫣

How do you avoid missteps and stay on track?

Who can you trust to share honest advice and keep you sane?

That’s where a mentor comes in.

The Problem

We all hit moments in our careers when we need perspective, advice, or just someone to say, “No, you’re not crazy.”

But asking someone to mentor you can feel…awkward.

How do I ask without sounding needy?

What if they say no?

How do I make it easy for them to say yes?

The Big Small Thing

Here are some signs it’s time for a mentor:

1️⃣ Taking on a leadership role: You need advice on delegation, leading others, or managing up.

2️⃣ Navigating office politics: You feel stuck and need help figuring out tricky dynamics, so you can be less frustrated at work.

3️⃣ Building a skillset: You want someone to fast-track you on a specific skill like decision-making, influencing without authority or technical expertise.

4️⃣ Feeling annoyed by your boss: You want a sounding board and need a trusted advisor who is…umm…not your boss.

Steal this script to land a mentor:

Subject line: Seeking your guidance

Hi [Senior Colleague’s Name],

Hope all is well! I’m X, and I work on the Y team in Z city.

I was really impressed by your answers on the VP panel last week. So honest and real. It was refreshing.

I’ve always admired your leadership, and I’d love the opportunity to learn from you. As I continue to grow in my career, would you be open to mentoring me?

While this could be an ongoing partnership (say, 30 minutes 1x/quarter), I’m also open to meeting ad hoc when I have a challenge to discuss. I want to be mindful of your time while still tapping your wisdom!

Thanks for considering.

Best,

[Your Name]

Next step:

Then, when you have the meeting, use this 2-slide template to wow them. I’ve done the work for you prettying up the slide. You can just fill in the blanks. It allows you to share your background, strengths, and requests of them in the meeting.

How This Helps You Chase What You Want

A great mentor can help you:

• See blind spots you might miss on your own
• Navigate challenges with more clarity and confidence
• Grow faster—because you’re learning from someone who’s been there

And here’s a bonus tip:

Mentorship can often turn into sponsorship.

While mentors talk to you, sponsors talk about you—advocating for your promotion, your big idea, or your next opportunity.

The first step to earning a sponsor? Impress them as a mentee.

(Note: I talk ALL about the importance of mentors vs sponsors in my new book, Wild Courage)

So here’s your challenge:

Take 10 minutes today to send the script to someone you admire.

Because the support you need to reach your goals this year might just be one email away.

Let’s do this,