Finding a career mentor should be number two on your “to do” list after graduation—right after what’s probably getting a job. A career mentor, someone who is dedicated to helping you succeed in you career, is an invaluable person to have in your life. A career mentor can help you with the following:

•Make decisions regarding your choice of jobs.

•Avoid pitfalls in your job search.

•Find vacant positions in your field.

•Give you information about your field.

•Help you meet people to further your career.

•Give you a realistic view of what working in your field is really like.

•Give you pointers on how to succeed in your field

•Give you salary information.

•Inform you on appropriate business etiquette.

•Advise you on how to handle problems in your workplace.

Like friendships, career mentor relationships are formed over time. In most cases, mentors are acquired through befriending people you meet that are in a position to help you.

If you haven’t met anyone you consider “mentor material” then you should seek someone out. Search for someone successful in your field at organizational meetings, conferences, career fairs and other venues. You can even find potential mentors in magazines and newsletters. When you chance upon a potential mentor, introduce yourself as a young professional seeking information from successful and knowledgeable sources like them. Potential mentors can be male or female and any ethnicity. The only thing they must eventually have is a desire to help you.

Once you’ve found a mentor, make sure to nurture the relationship by showing your appreciation for the advice and whatever else your mentor provides. You don’t want them to get the feeling they’re being taken advantage of. You can show your appreciation by sincere “thank you’s” as well as cards, flowers or lunch. Remember that because career mentor relationships are like friendships, you have to keep in contact with your mentor. Don’t just call on them when you need something. Consider them and treat them as you would a good friend. Do this, and you’ll have someone in your corner for life.

Chaz Kyser is the author of “Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman’s Guide to Life After College” ($14.99). Purchase the book online at www.embracingtherealworld.com. Send comments about this article to column@embracingtherealworld.com.