Finding the right sales mentor

Find someone who is successful, positive, and a good listener. Look for a mentor with proven sales success, experience overcoming challenges and achieving goals that are similar to your own.

He or she should offer a sounding board for the sales and career issues you're facing. Understanding what you're going through will allow your mentor to give valuable input, hold you accountable to your objectives, and push you to do your very best. Your mentor is your coach and cheerleader!

And don't be afraid to consider mentors from other industries or backgrounds. There's no rule that says your mentor has to have, or have had, a similar sales job to the one you have. In fact, advice and guidance from a mentor who doesn't work in your field could yield an entirely new perspective.