19 Apr 2025
Starting my tech career felt like trying to read a book in a foreign language.
Every time I thought I understood something, a new term or tool popped up that sent me back to square one. I was constantly overwhelmed with questions: “Should I focus on front-end development or back-end?” “What exactly is cloud computing?” And don't even get me started on UX design, was it the same as UI? Spoiler: It’s not.
What turned things around for me was mentorship. I didn’t realize how much of a difference it would make to have someone who’s been there, done that, guiding me. My mentors didn’t just hand me answers, they helped me understand the “why” behind everything I was learning.
We broke down complex topics into bite-sized pieces. Suddenly, concepts that once felt like mountains became little hills I could climb one step at a time.
Mentorship wasn’t just about learning the technical stuff; it was also about building my confidence. Every time I faced a challenge, I had someone to talk it through with, someone who understood my struggles and encouraged me when I felt like giving up. With their help, I not only understood what I was doing but also why it mattered.
So, if you’re feeling confused in your tech journey, you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel that way. But remember, having a mentor can help transform that confusion into clarity, turning you from a newbie into someone who walks with confidence.
Think you don't need a mentor? Think again!
Here are five signs that might indicate you need a mentor in your tech career:
You’re Overwhelmed by All the Options
In tech, the options are endless. Should you go for web development? Or maybe you’re drawn to data science? Or perhaps you want to be a software tester? If you find yourself spinning in circles, unsure of which direction to take, a mentor can help you cut through the noise and focus your efforts.
You Need Accountability
It’s easy to say you’re going to learn something, but how many times have you started a course and then abandoned it halfway through? Accountability is one of the most important aspects of mentorship. A mentor will check in, help you set realistic goals, and most importantly, push you to follow through.
You Feel Like You’re Stuck in a Rut
We’ve all been there–those days when progress feels impossible. When your learning feels stagnant or your skills plateau, a mentor can offer the fresh perspective or guidance you need to break free. Whether it’s refining your technical skills or helping you push through personal roadblocks, they’ll know how to get you back on track.
You Don’t Know Who to Ask for Help
There’s a ton of advice online, but not all advice is created equal. A mentor is the perfect person to offer targeted advice that’s specific to your career goals. Whether it’s resume tips, interview prep, or dealing with workplace challenges, having someone to go to for honest feedback can make all the difference.
You Want to Fast-Track Your Growth
Learning tech on your own is awesome, but it can be slow. If you want to accelerate your progress, a mentor can help you avoid common mistakes and guide you on the quickest path to achieving your goals. They’ve been where you are and can help you avoid the learning curve that comes with figuring it out on your own.
If you’re checking off any of these signs, it might be time to find a mentor. They can help you not only get unstuck but also boost your confidence and keep you motivated as you progress in your career.
This is such a lovely read. Having a mentor truly helps out a lot and save you from stress and wasting time.