SkillHero
July 19, 2023
If you're looking to start or grow your career in the skilled trades, a great mentor can be an invaluable resource. They can give you guidance and advice as you navigate your career and offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.
In this article we'll explore three ways to find a skilled trade mentorship, no matter where you are in your career.
What is a skilled trade mentorship?
A skilled trade mentorship is a professional relationship between an experienced individual and a beginner who is interested in learning more about the industry. The mentor provides guidance, advice and support to help the novice learn important skills, navigate their career, and gain valuable industry connections.
3 ways to find an ideal skilled trade mentorship
Finding an ideal skilled trade mentorship can be a great asset for those looking to start or grow their career in the trades. Let's take a look at three core strategies that can help you find a well-matched mentor.
Use the SkillHero app
Our web and mobile app includes a list of vetted mentors that you can easily investigate and connect with from your computer or smartphone.
Our mentor database includes experienced industry professionals like Rob Rheintgen, whose profile is pictured above. You can read through their profiles, follow them, and send direct messages in a much more intimate setting than generic platforms like Linkedin.
Even if the first few mentors you reach out to aren't the right match, they may be able to refer you to one of the professional contacts they've accumulated by spending years in the skilled trades.
Attend trade shows and conferences
Trade shows and conferences are an excellent opportunity to meet others in your field and find potential mentors. These events often feature networking opportunities, workshops, and panels led by industry experts.
Attend these events with a goal of meeting at least one potential mentor, and be sure to bring business cards and a resume. Don't be afraid to strike up conversations with people you admire, and follow up with them after the event to explore mentorship opportunities further.
The SkillHero app is a great way to discover trade shows and conferences near you that will help advance your career and find a great mentor. Our newsfeed is always full of reminders with information on how to sign up.
Reach out to local businesses
Local businesses in your trade are often a great resource for finding a mentor. These businesses are often invested in their community and may be willing to take on an apprentice or mentor someone who is interested in their trade.
Don't be afraid to reach out to local businesses and express your interest in a potential mentorship. Explain your career goals and why you're interested in their trade. Be persistent, but also respectful of their time and expertise.
If a business isn't currently able to offer mentorship, don't be discouraged – they may know of other professionals who can offer guidance. You can connect with local entrepreneurs easily via the SkillHero app.
What forms of mentorship exist in the skilled trades?
Mentorships generally come in three forms, including traditional one-one-one meetings, online mentoring, and group mentoring. Having in-person individual mentorship is ideal, but it may be easier to find an online mentor or someone who works with a group.
Mentorship can also be part of a job, such as being combined with an apprenticeship, or it can be separate from your actual work.
Do I need a mentor in the skilled trades?
Apprenticeships are a great way to benefit from a more experienced tradesperson's body of work. Learning from your own mistakes is great, but learning from other peoples' mistakes is far more efficient.
Finding a skilled trade mentor can take time, but there are plenty of resources in the SkillHero app to help speed up the process.
By using our app, attending trade shows and conferences, and reaching out to local businesses, you can find a mentor who can help guide you on your career path.
Remember to be persistent, respectful, and clear about your goals and aspirations. A great mentor can help you achieve success in the skilled trades and make a significant difference in your professional life.
