When it comes to finding a highly successful mentor, Matt Higgins, the “Shark Tank” investor and RSE Ventures CEO, has some valuable advice. His number one tip? Don’t directly ask someone to be your mentor. During a recent CNBC Make It: Your Money virtual event, Higgins explained that mentorships typically don’t form from cold-messages between strangers.
Higgins finds it demanding and transactional when strangers ask him for mentorship. Instead, if you have someone in mind that you want as a mentor, try reaching out with a specific question that you want advice on. By doing so, you can start to build a relationship that may eventually lead to a mentorship.
For example, you could ask Higgins about his struggle with impostor syndrome, which you heard on an episode of “Shark Tank.” Then, mention that you have a crucial interview and request one sentence of advice. Higgins emphasized that asking a discrete question makes it easier for someone to help you and potentially form an authentic relationship over time.
Despite the potential embarrassment, Higgins encourages putting ego aside and asking for help. He admits that he wasn’t always comfortable with it but has learned to embrace the process of reaching out to others and explaining his mission.
Higgins isn’t the only “Shark Tank” star with thoughts on mentorship. Mark Cuban, in a 2020 interview, stated that he’s not a big fan of mentoring because he considers it a shortcut to success. However, Daymond John, another “Shark Tank” investor, believes in the value of mentors and credits them with changing his life. John mentions that mentors don’t have to be billionaires or CEOs, as they can be ordinary people in your family or community who are willing to help.
In conclusion, while Higgins advises against directly asking someone to be your mentor, he emphasizes the importance of building relationships and seeking advice through specific questions. On the other hand, Cuban sees mentorship as a shortcut and prefers to focus on personal achievements. Meanwhile, John recognizes the impact mentors had on his life and believes they can be found anywhere, including within our own communities. Remember, mentors can provide valuable guidance and support on your path to success.
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