Mentoring Week with Jess Poon
What is your favourite aspect of mentoring young entrepreneurs?
My favourite part is seeing their eyes light up when they are talking about their idea and what impact they are hoping to bring. I think each one of us brings something so unique to the table. While the “what” may be similar across the industry, the “why” behind their idea or business is always so fascinating. So, having them share that so confidently and passionately is no doubt one of my favourite aspects of mentoring young entrepreneurs.
If a student wanted to start a business, what is one piece of advice you would share with them?
In today’s economy, authenticity and individuality are what sells. My one piece of advice would be to start building your personal brand now! It’s never too early to start. Personal branding can help you stand out and boost your career. It’s the way you present yourself professionally and how others perceive you. It is very similar to building a business, except you are learning how to market yourself first by uncovering personal values, building authority, and cultivating your online presence. When you get comfortable with using your voice, sharing your story, and showing up, it will help guide you in launching your business down the line.
And this also goes without saying… START NOW! Don’t wait until you feel ready because chances are, you won’t ever feel that way! I encourage you to take that first step today — whether that be refining your resume, writing a blog post, or joining a new community!
How do you suggest going about finding a mentor?
Here are my 3 steps framework 😊
1. Identify your needs first. How much of a commitment are you looking for and what exactly do you want in a mentor — both in skills and personality. What are you looking to achieve with a mentor? What can he/she help you with? What commitment are you looking for from them?
2. Do your research! Join LinkedIn Groups, ask for recommendations, and start connecting with like-minded individuals in your industry. You will most likely come up with a short-list which is the goal at this step.
3. Once you have someone in mind, spend some time connecting with them. For example — commenting on their LinkedIn posts or attending/supporting local events they may be speaking at. Don’t rush this process! Once you are ready, ask to connect with them one on one to see if they would be interested in meeting to chat in person.
Do you have any advice on Networking?
Don’t think of it as networking but rather connecting. The goal isn’t to collect as many business cards or LinkedIn connections as possible at one event… The goal is to build an authentic connection with the people you meet. Networking is just a conversation and nothing more. You are meeting new people within your community and seeing what cool things they have been up to! The next time you go to a networking event, think of one genuine question you want to know about the other person. And no, I don’t mean the good ol’ “where do you work or what do you do”… but something that you REALLY want to know. Let that conversation naturally flow and don’t overthink it too much!
*This feature was published in honour of the uOttawa Mentoring Week, 2021.
