I have had the privilege of being mentored by some incredible leaders, some you would know, others you might not–but nonetheless, God has used them to teach me SO MUCH about life and ministry.
Over the years, I have developed five rules for meeting with a mentor that I would love to share here today…you may agree or disagree; all I know is that they have worked for me.
#1 – I Always Adjust to Their Schedule–ALWAYS!
When I am attempting to set up an appointment with someone I want to meet with–I always ask them (or their assistant) to throw two or three dates at me that are most convenient for them…and then I adjust my schedule to make the meeting happen.
I NEVER send them the times I want and then ask them to adjust their schedules. I am the one who wants the meeting…and if they are available to me, I will bend over backwards to hang out with them.
#2 – I Am Always Early for the Appointment
If I am driving from out of town, I always make sure I arrive around 30 minutes early. If I get there TOO early, then I will find a coffee shop–OR break out a book (ALWAYS have a book with you). AND…if I see I am going to be late because of traffic or unforeseen circumstance, I always give them (or their assistant) a call informing them that I am on my way. (I do this EVEN if I am going to be five minutes late–to me it’s simply a matter of respect.)
Usually, I will arrive at the person’s office to meet them about 15 minutes early…and quite a few times, the person I am meeting with has been ready, thus giving me “bonus time!”
