Advance Your IT Career With a Mentor

Posted by in Technology


These days, the competition for IT jobs is fierce. But even harder is advancing your IT career. Degrees, certifications and experience may not be enough to move you to the next level. Occasionally, you may need the wisdom and insight of a pro. A tech sage, who’s fought her way up the ladder and can give you a new perspective. So how can an IT mentor help you?
 
To begin with, IT mentors can not only impart years of expertise they’ve gained in working in the field, they also have access to a network of business professionals, compounding what they know and sharing who they know. Mentors will undoubtedly have been mentored by experienced professionals who helped them gain a better understanding of the IT industry. Their mentors have "brought them along," enhancing both their strengths and skills.
 
When you team up with a mentor, you establish a symbiotic relationship. "It is important to remember that this is a two-way relationship. While you are looking to benefit from the mentor, you are also looking to help the mentor," says Imad Lodhi, a veteran of IBM and the outsourcing industry. In most cases, the person being mentored has more to gain, but sometimes, the mentor gains as well. "By helping another person succeed, you help create a brighter future for all of us, and gain the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a difference in someone's life," said Lodhi. 
 
In seeking out a good mentor that’s right for you, look for leadership, approachability and listening skills, advises Michael R. Spano, a Certified Executive Consultant in the IBM CIO Office and mentor. "The qualities that make a good mentor are those that define a great leader," said Spano. Passion for the job is key as well. "Not all leaders or teachers are great mentors, but all great mentors find ways to teach and inspire, without criticism, and are always supportive," says Spano. 

Sometimes, it’s hard to find all the qualities you’re looking for in a single mentor. Many young IT novices have more than one mentor: one for IT tech issues, another for management and customer relationship issues. The point is, a skilled and savvy mentor can keep you from “walking into the propeller” when problems come up.
 
"It is critically important to have a mentor in the area of IT. Having a mentor in this environment allows you to see where your business is heading and then you can begin to build your skills and expertise in the areas they will most need you in the coming years," says Spano.
 
If you’re working in IT and find yourself stagnating and unable to move up, an IT mentor may be able to help you. They can advise you on everything from training and certifications to avoiding landmines when dealing with customers. 

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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  • Alex Kecskes
    Alex Kecskes
    If you're out of work, consider  joining any or all of these groups for networking, finding a mentor and learning about job openings:Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP)Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
  • Michael L. G
    Michael L. G
    I graduate in 2011 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information technology/Computer Networking Systems.  I was not able to take the bachelors degree in network security.  Instead I studied and received my Security + certification by self preparation.  I passed the exam with a 891/900.  I was out of work for about a year and now can not get a job in this field as of right now because the employer do a credit check.  I am looking for advise on what I should do to advance my career or just land a job.  
  • Charles B
    Charles B
    I am trying to revive my career  in IT. I have been out of work for over 2yrs, my background in is in Computer Operations. I have gone back to school for a PC/L AN course, which prepared me to take the A+ exam which I have completed (Have'nt taken exam....no funds). I have sent my resumes and have been on interviews and I still unable to secure employment. I believe, mentoring and hard work will get me back on my feet.
  • Alex Kecskes
    Alex Kecskes
    For more info, check out:SSE Mentoring Schedulehttp://sse.se.rit.edu/mentoringAlso try this:StudentMentor.org https://www.studentmentor.org/mentee/register/standard?gclid=CKmQqNPb9bUCFVGRPAodpncAKQ
  •  James H
    James H
    I think tat is  very good thing to have some one help you or me get the help we need to get into the IT to help with the job
  • Annette J
    Annette J
    I studied A+ in school a few years ago and I gave it up because I was afraid to take it further. I did not think I had enough training. Do mentors help people like me? How much do a mentor cost?
  • Michael L
    Michael L
    Great article.  Now where can I find an IT mentor?
  • Brian M
    Brian M
    Excellent idea, however, the article gives no resource or plan to get a mentor?
  • joe d
    joe d
    great message
  • Ray W
    Ray W
    I believe in your message and that this is the approach I need to take.
  • Rahman W
    Rahman W
    I am subscribed to receive available positions through Business Workforce and came across this email. I have to say it couldn't have been more timely. I recently graduated from school  just a couple months ago and I'm in search of exactly what the article described. I am currently working in Technical Support and doing quite well in this position. Often though, I wonder what my next major move will be and also what it will entail in my field. I think this article is great for someone like me (a new graduate), even for those who have been in the workforce for a little while and seeking to gain more insight from someone more experienced. I would like more information of how this process works if possible. Thanks,Rahman
  • Sandra R
    Sandra R
    An IT mentor would be welcomed and appreciated. I have been struggling in an attempt to find an entry level position.I would welcome the guidance and wisdom of an established IT professional.   
  • Crista Herring R
    Crista Herring R
    This is an excellent idea. I have been in the IT field for some years now, however being that I have been doing contract work, I have not been able to master any skill. I am stagnate at this time and find it hard to get thru any of my interviews. A mentor is just what I need.
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