Inspiring and successful businesswomen have encouraged other business owners to get a mentor. Mentors can provide many benefits for not only the accomplishment of professional goals, but also personal goals. Five of the women highlighted in the free Mentoring Stories eBook, published by HerBusiness, agree that a mentor has past experience that is helpful when it comes to supporting new businesses to grow and develop.
“The right mentor can help you map out the steps you need to take in order to leap to the next level”, says Valerie Khoo, Director of the Australian Writers’ Centre whose mentoring story is one of those included in the new publication.
Jodie Fox, co-founder of Shoes of Prey and one of the four co-founders of Sneaking Duck, says “wisdom really only comes from experience… so a mentor is crucial for women!”
Mentors were also found to provide essential knowledge and skills development.
“I learned how to look beyond day to day and work on the business, not in the business”, explained Penny Spencer, who manages Spencer Travel.
Margaret Byrne, principle consultant for UMG Consulting, says her mentor “instilled in me a love of research and problem solving. Today, this is one of the most important attributes that sets UGM Consulting apart.”
“I think a mentor is a very valuable resource for a small business as it’s someone to talk to and help work through future plans and business goals” – Mandi Gunsberger, CEO and managing editor for Babyology. “Throughout each of these stories, which are available as a free downloadable eBook, these inspiring women talk about how the experience and perspectives of a mentor or mentors is important for the growth of your business and for your professional development”, explains ABN’s CEO, Suzi Dafnis.
The eBook can be downloaded, at no cost, from the HerBusiness website. The MentorNet Small Business Mentoring Program provides an opportunity for women to seek out their own mentor and to acquire new business skills and knowledge. The next MentorNet Program starts on 25 September and registrations are now being accepted.
