Learning from Mistakes

Week #17 (1/11/21 - 1/15/21):

This week, I decided it was time to make a change in the way I do things. I realized that if I am not able to get a mentor, there must be something I can change in my process that will improve my results. I first looked at what I already knew from successful interviews with professionals: using email to contact, making sure to do research on subjects related to the professional, formulating an email that is personalized, and making sure the email covers all necessary information about ISM and why I want to interview them. To see where I can grow, I decided to look at a few articles. According to your.yale.edu, you cannot directly ask someone to be your mentor when you meet them and it is important to create a connection with them before doing so. This was not completely new to me, but it was a great reminder because rapport is very important in creating professional relationships. Additionally, I read an article by fastcompany.com, which entailed the importance of keeping in touch with professional contacts. I learned that occasional emails are helpful in sustaining these professional relationships. From what I have learned, I decided to start fresh and contact new professionals with a good email and relevant information about my career choice. This week, I hope to get some responses and apply the strategies that I have learned from the articles!