Schedule a meeting with your mentor
Now, let's put all of the pieces together and schedule a time to meet with your mentor. Just as important, take time to ensure that the mentor is as prepared for the meeting as you are.
Step 1: Introduce yourself
☐ Revisit your research to ensure you understand the mentor's relevant experience.
☐ Compose an email that provides a quick description of your company—either as an introduction or as a reminder—and outlines the discussion you're hoping to have with the mentor.
☐ Request windows of availability or ask for access to their preferred scheduling assistant.
Step 2: Establish a time and location
Once your mentor responds, find a time and location that works for both of you—and for the format and timing of the meeting.
☐ Pick a time that provides you with adequate time before and after the meeting, but that falls within the mentor's available time.
☐ Send a calendar invite or use the mentors preferred scheduling tool.
☐ Share a draft of the agenda you've created for the meeting and ask for edits/additions from the mentor.
☐ Include any attachments or links to materials required to prepare for the meeting.
☐ If the meeting is in person, ensure that directions are provided.
☐ Block an additional 30-60 minutes on your personal calendar immediately following your mentor meeting to ensure that you have time to process the content from the meeting.
Step 3: Confirm the meeting
Finally, the day before, ensure that both you and the mentor are prepared for the meeting.
☐ Send a personal reminder.
☐ Ask if the mentor needs to reschedule.
☐ Include a revised agenda with relevant attachments or links.
☐ Confirm the location of the meeting.
☐ Even if it's a virtual meeting, provide phone/text information in case anything changes at the last minute or the mentor has difficulty joining the meeting/finding you.