Instant Interviews: 101 Ways to Get the Best Job of Your Life

Chapter 50. Using a Rent-a-Mentor

It's so slick that they don't even realize they're being "mented!"

Why wouldn't someone who knows he's older and thinks he's wiser not want to spend his life getting you interviews?

It happens.

But don't approach it that way. Don't ask him to be your mentor (Do 95).

Ask, ask, ASK—but just not that.

You can ask the rent-a-mentor questions in almost any environment.

You: Hi, Max!

Max: Hi, Tom. How've you been?

You: Great. I'm interviewing for a job right now, and am trying new approaches. (Don't say 101.)

Max: Good for you!

You: I sure hope I find a job like yours.

Max: Thanks for the compliment. But my job's got its challenges too.

You: I understand that. But I'd love something like it. How'd you hear about that job opening anyway? Did a recruiter call you?

Max: Nope. I was really unemployable. My sister-in-law told me about the job.

You: How'd you handle the interview? Was it tough?

Max: Not really. I researched the company online. Then, I just told them what they wanted to hear. I said, "If you want a 'yes-man,' I'm not your guy." The supervisor said, "We don't need any more yes-men around here." I was, they did. Things worked out well.

You: They actually hired you from that yes-man conversation?

Max: Of course! Nobody wants you to rock the boat, particularly if it's staying afloat!

You: Gee! (Such a mentee word.) How clever! (Yet another one.) Where did you ever learn things like that? (I know it's not fair, but this mentor thing is for his own good.)

Max: I know, ...