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Welcome, herteliers! Grab a cup of tea or coffee, perhaps some biscuits, and settle in. I’m Nelma Neto, and I have just been promoted to Senior Purchasing Executive at Tour Partner Group. I’ve been at my company for less than two years, and this is my first “real” job after graduating from university. My recent promotion is partially thanks to my mentor, Tony Yerasimou, Founder & Director at Antella Travel Recruitment. I’m thrilled to share my first experience with a mentorship program, organized by Women in Travel CIC, and why having a mentor is crucial, especially when you’re just starting your career.
My Mentorship Journey
As I began my career less than two years ago, I was seeking guidance but didn’t know how to find it. Maybe you can relate? Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to join a mentorship program provided by Women in Travel, their Allyship Programme. Let me tell you—it was a game-changer.
I was fortunate to be mentored by Tony Yerasimou, co-founder and director of Antella Recruitment. His guidance has been invaluable as I navigate the early stages of my career. Hearing Tony’s journey—moving to another country, backpacking around the world, overcoming challenges, and running his business—was inspiring. It motivated me and made me realize that there is no set path to success.
Why Mentorship Matters
Mentorship can significantly impact both your professional and personal development. Growing up, I was surrounded by people with limited beliefs about what was possible in life. This wasn’t their fault; they simply lacked access to information, guidance, and support. But I always felt there was more to life and that a brighter future was achievable.
Having a mentor like Tony has not only provided me with practical advice and strategies but also helped shift my mindset. Mentorship can open doors to opportunities you might never have imagined and help you unlock your full potential. I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to connect with Tony through the Women in Travel Allyship Program, which is open to women around the world (check it out!).
No matter how you pursue finding a mentor, here are some general tips and my key takeaways.
Overcoming Challenges in Finding a Mentor
Finding your first mentor can be daunting. Here are some common challenges and how to overcome them:
Not Knowing What You Need: It can be difficult to articulate what you want from a mentor. Start by identifying your goals and what specific guidance you need.
Asking the Wrong Questions: Instead of asking someone to be your mentor outright, start by asking for a specific conversation or advice on a particular issue.
Misunderstanding Mentorship: People often have different ideas about how mentoring should work. Make sure you and your potential mentor are on the same page.
Accessibility: You might find it hard to access more experienced professionals. Networking events and online platforms like LinkedIn can help bridge this gap.
Hesitation: Respect and admiration for someone might make you hesitant to formalize the mentorship. Remember, many professionals are eager to share their knowledge and help others grow.
How to Choose the Right Mentor
When choosing a mentor, consider the following:
Shared Professional Outlook: Choose someone whose achievements and industry experience you admire. They should share your professional goals and outlook.
Compatibility: Ensure you can communicate well and work effectively with this person. The mentor should be supportive, communicative, and inspiring.
Guidance, Not Directives: A good mentor encourages you to find your own answers, guiding rather than advising, and inspiring rather than motivating.
Happiness in Their Career: Seek someone who truly loves what they do. Their passion will be contagious and motivating.
My Key Takeaways from Mentorship
During my time with Tony, I learned invaluable lessons, including:
Building a better routine and effectively following my to-do tasks
Improving and creating new strategies
Developing and operating a business
Growing my professional profile
Tony’s dedication and support were instrumental in my growth. As he said, “I thoroughly enjoyed working with Nelma. Her enthusiasm and determination to continuously develop herself were truly admirable.”
Final Thoughts + Advice on Finding a Mentor
Never underestimate the power of mentorship. It can change your life and open doors to unimaginable opportunities. Remember, life is in constant motion, and as we grow, we may need mentors at different stages. For now, I’m grateful for the journey and the bond I’ve formed with my mentor, Tony.
So, if you’re just starting your career, I highly recommend seeking a mentor. It’s a step that can profoundly impact your personal and professional growth!!