How to Answer: Have you ever had a mentor?
18. Have you ever had a mentor?
How to Answer
There are many benefits to having a mentor, and many interviewers will look highly on a candidate who has the foresight to realize that there is a massive benefit to having a mentor.
Some benefits to having a mentor include:
- Gaining someone else's years of knowledge in a short amount of time
- Advice on your weaknesses from someone that you trust
- The opportunity to learn new ways of thinking
- A positive experience to mention on your resume or cover letter
- Broadening your network
Answer Example
"I recently asked one of my professors to be a mentor to me as I begin my career. She agreed, and we have been meeting every Tuesday evening for one hour. She has already taught me a great deal about communication and professionalism. I look forward to learning more."
Admin
"I have not had a mentor yet; however, I fully understand the importance of having one. I look forward to meeting more professionals as my career grows and carefully choosing someone to help me grow as a professional."
Manager
"Mentorship is something that I would love to have in my professional life. I would also like to learn how to be a mentor, down the road in my career. The most important thing about mentorship is that it's a valuable exchange of knowledge that often takes years to achieve."
Marketing
"I had a mentor while completing my digital marketing degree. A fourth-year student took me under his wing and showed me some great ways to excel in my first year, and beyond. I now look forward to gaining a professional mentor."
Retail
"Collaborating with a mentor is a positive experience that I would enjoy having. I do not know anyone at this point in my life who I could ask, but if you have any recommendations for me, I am open to hearing them."
Sales
"I look up to my former professor from business school and recently asked him to recommendations. I am actively seeking out an individual to mentor me in business, sales, and to shape me professionally, overall."
Teacher
"My mentor is my best friends' mother who is also an educator. She has been a teacher for 25 years and helped me a great deal while I was completing my education degree. Having a mentor is a game-changer."