We hear people talk about the benefits of getting a mentor all the time, especially if you are a woman in tech. And it’s true having all the tools at your disposal to advance in this male-dominated space is critical.

But while the talk of mentors and mentorship is rife, it’s not always clear why. Here is a list of the benefits.

• Guidance and Support: A mentor can provide guidance and support to help women navigate the challenges they may face in the tech industry. This can include advice on career development, dealing with workplace issues, and navigating the industry culture.

• Networking: A mentor can also provide opportunities for women to expand their network and connect with other professionals in the industry. This can help them find new job opportunities, build relationships with potential clients or collaborators, and gain exposure to new ideas and perspectives.

• Role Models: Having a mentor who is a successful woman in the tech industry can be a powerful role model for women who are just starting out or who may be facing obstacles in their careers. Seeing someone who has successfully navigated the industry and overcome similar challenges can be inspiring and motivating.

• Confidence Building: A mentor can help build women’s confidence in tech by providing positive feedback, highlighting their strengths, and encouraging them to take on new challenges. This can help women overcome imposter syndrome and other forms of self-doubt that can hold them back from reaching their full potential.

Overall, having a mentor can be a valuable asset for women in tech, providing them with guidance, support, and connections that can help them succeed in their careers.

Here are five ways women can find a good mentor in tech:

1. Join women’s tech groups or communities: There are many women’s tech groups or communities that offer mentorship opportunities. Joining these groups can help you connect with women who are already established in tech and are willing to mentor you.

2. Attend tech events: Attending tech events like conferences and meetups can be a great way to network and find potential mentors. These events often provide opportunities to meet people who are experienced in the tech industry and are willing to share their knowledge.

3. Use online mentorship platforms: Several online mentorship platforms connect mentees with mentors in various fields, including tech. You can search for a mentor with experience in your specific area of interest.

4. Ask colleagues and supervisors: If you work in the tech industry, consider asking your colleagues and supervisors if they know someone who would be a good mentor for you. They may know of someone who has the skills and experience you need.

5. Reach out to professional associations: Many professional associations for women in tech offer mentorship programmes. Reach out to these associations to see if they have a programme that could be a good fit for you. You can also check if your company has any internal mentorship programmes or resources.