Each week, we try to tackle a common question from our student members, most of whom are in MPA programs. This week, we discuss finding a mentor.

We often hear from students that finishing their degree is something that they both look forward to immensely, and fear. Much of that fear, not at all surprisingly, comes from entering the job market. How do I get that first job? What skills should I emphasize on my resume? What on earth is a 401K? Does anyone have any advice for a recent graduate? These are all questions that breed that fear. The solution? A mentor. As Rob Carty, our NextGen Director likes to say when talking about…well, everything actually, every quarterback needs a coach. So, here are some suggestions on getting that mentor that can coach you through your transition from student to local government management professional:

Find the right person.

This might seem obvious, because it is, but you need to find the right mentor. By “right,” I do not mean “highest up in the nearest local government to you.” You need to mesh with your mentor—this should be someone that you can talk to, that you find approachable, and that you trust. You will need to share—a lot—with this person, and if you can’t do that, the relationship won’t be particularly helpful for you. And remember, mentoring isn’t for everyone! Don’t try to strong arm someone into being your mentor—you won’t end up getting much out of the relationship if they don’t want to be in it.

But…where?

Finding that person, though, can be a challenge. Luckily, there are two easy places you can look. First, check out the ICMA career coaching group. Take a look at the members and see if any of them work near you, or graduated from the same school as you’re attending. Second, look to see if your state association has a coaching gallery (California, for example, has a large program). Your schools career services center may also be able to put you in touch with a mentor. Also, consider a coach who is where you want to be (both geographically and professionally). For example, you might pick an assistant to the manager in Oregon, if you’re looking to relocate there and trying to score a junior position.

Keep the relationship long term.

Once you find your mentor, don’t ditch them after you get that first job. Your relationship with your mentor should be long term. You’ll inevitably need more advice as you progress down your career path, and finding a new mentor in every stage of your career seems awfully time consuming and can be counterproductive. This doesn’t mean you need to check in every day (that kind of regularity is reserved for touching base with Grandma), but most successful mentoring relationships that turn into friendships involve checking in at least once a year.

So take a deep breath students! Know that for every question and concern that you have there is an answer somewhere out there—all you have to do is find a mentor to give it to you. Good luck!

Do you have any experience with a great mentor? Share in the comments below.