Do you have a role model or mentor?

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Having a mentor or role model shows the interviewer that you are open to personal and professional growth. If you do not have a mentor, be prepared to discuss who you would choose as a mentor if you could. A mentor can be a leader, parent, family friend, professor, motivational speaker, or pastor you respect. Maybe you listen to a specific podcast or read a particular author's books for personal development. Whatever you choose, be sure to show the interviewer that you are open to continued growth through mentorship.

People are drawn to specific individuals who have like-minded qualities. When you respond to this question, focus on why you chose this person as a mentor or role model. Describe the attributes that drew you to this person, showing the interviewer that you also possess those qualities.

It is best to avoid saying you do not have a role model or mentor. If you do not have someone in your life that has inspired you, it shows the interviewer that you might not be open to continued growth through mentorship and may be a difficult employee to work with.

"My role model has always been my mother. She has such a level head and sticks to her decisions once made. She taught me everything I know about the importance of discipline and enjoying life."

"My role model is Tony Robbins. I listen to his podcast every morning because I find him motivating, and I like his tough approach. He's taught me the importance of grabbing life by the horns."

"One of the most significant role models I have had was my supervisor in the state facility for which I was first hired. He took me under his wing and taught me practices that I still implement. He did not bring an ego to work and treated the inmates with empathy and respect as much as possible."

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I do have a mentor. I met him while playing pick up basketball and we had a lot of similarities. After getting to know him, I found out he was in the law enforcement field, so I started doing volunteer services with him and he has been guiding me."

Rachelle's Feedback

This example is great! I have reworded it a bit, for the sake of clarity.

"Yes, I do have a mentor. He and I met during a game of pick up basketball. We have a lot of similarities which initially connected us, and I later learned he was in law enforcement. Because of him, I started to volunteer. He has been mentoring me for six months now."

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Anonymous Answer

"My role model is my martial art instructor. He is the one who guides me through my mistakes, no matter how many times I fail. He always encourages me to learn, giving my best shot by seeing the potential in me, and always setting me up for success. He never gives up on me because he believes that I am greater than what I think. He taught me to practice as hard as I can so that when I go to the tournaments, it will be like a regular practice. He guides me to be more proactive in everything I do in life by connecting what I learn in martial and applying in real life."

Rachelle's Feedback

Your martial arts instructor sounds like a true inspiration! It is a memorable answer; well done.

Anonymous Answer

"* My role model has always been my older brother, who has taught me the meaning of duty and is proud to help offenders in his role as a police officer."

Rachelle's Feedback

It sounds like your brother has played a significant part in your career goals. Can you speak in more detail regarding the lessons that your brother has taught you?

How to Answer: Do you have a role model or mentor?