Mentors can make a difference. Finding good ones may be difficult, but the effort pays off, opens doors

Moving up the corporate ladder can be a challenging endeavor. Sometimes it appears others are receiving a helping hand. They often do — from a mentor.

Most people promoted have abilities recognized by management. But getting recognized by management is often the most difficult part of the promotion process. If your mom or dad doesn’t own the company, one of the best ways to become recognized is to have a manager at a higher level who supports and guides you through the corporate culture.

Webster’s Encyclopedia of Dictionaries defines a mentor as "an experienced and prudent advisor." However, at work they are often much more than that. They may be friends or someone who has a personal interest in your success. Ideally, your mentor should facilitate introductions to the right people, endorse your abilities when needed and provide both day-to-day and long-term career guidance.

So, how do you find a mentor? There are two primary ways.

By M.B. OWENS
SCRIPPS HOWARD NEWS SERVICE

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