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As we stepped into a new year with new resolutions and a flair for risk-taking, it’s with a gentle shoulder tap of a reminder that mentorship is a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship, as it can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights that help rising entrepreneurs navigate the often-challenging world of launching and then growing a business into a sustainable state in this ever-changing climate. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, finding the right mentor can be a complete game-changer.

It’s not exactly a newsflash to acknowledge how vital mentorship is with providing entrepreneurs access to valuable resources, knowledge, and networks. A good mentor will have a wealth of experience and can help entrepreneurs avoid common mistakes and pitfalls they may not even know are coming their way.

Mentors can also be a sounding board for entrepreneurs, allowing them to bounce ideas off of someone with more knowledge and to receive constructive feedback. Plus, a mentor will help the entrepreneurs they take under their wings have access to doors they probably didn’t know of before, whether that’s through introductions to potential investors, customers, or partners!

Finding a mentor can be a daunting task and there should be no shame or fear associated in asking for help. One of the most effective ways to find a mentor is through networking. It might sound too good to be true, but the ecosystem is full of support and everyone wanting to see the other succeed. Attend local entrepreneurship events you can find through LinkedIn or Instagram posts, join industry groups and organizations, and connect with other entrepreneurs. If you don’t know how to join a community, you can create one! This will give you the opportunity to meet potential mentors and to learn from their expertise.

Additionally, the rise of institutionalized mentorship programs that facilitate connecting entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders is a great way to find a mentor who is well-suited to your specific needs and goals.

Take Qodwa, CFA Society Bahrain‘s Mentorship Program that is designed to pair mentors and mentees who are best suited to realize their full potential together while ensuring the success of each individual as they pursue their academic and professional objectives.

There’s also Tenmou, Bahrain’s first Business Angels Company that provides guidance and funding opportunities to high potential, innovative Bahrain-based entrepreneurs who have reached the stage of viability in their business journey. Through the support and mentorship their Angel shareholders impart, the new entrepreneurs have a greater chance in succeeding.

And of course, Etijah Coaching and Consulting that have constantly churned out different mentorship programs catered to empowering all sorts of people like Ladies Who Leads, a program aimed at young female students and professionals to succeed in their chosen career by equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the workplace with ease and confidence.

Working with a mentor can be a rewarding experience, their guidance is invaluable in providing an outside perspective that will be a direct feedback to your situation than a generalized one you’ll need to pick at to see if it fits you. Maybe you can even consider mentoring others, as it can be a great way to give back to the community and share your journey with others!

If you have any questions or feedback to share with StartUp Bahrain, don’t hesitate to reach out using our social media handles on Instagram or LinkedIn. We love to hear from you. No, really, we do!