Halllp Needs a Mentor

I have previously highlighted the importance of getting a mentor (link) and I feel Halllp is in a stage where we need one.

First time building a classifieds business – Since I do not have experience of building a startup in this space, the role of mentor is very important in giving direction to the startup.

New geography; culture, marketing methods – Both my previous startups have been targeted to India and hence this would be a very different market and experience for me.

Building a scalable model – Help with building sustainability and scalability in my business model is key.

Confirming validity of idea – Having someone with experience in this domain give feedback can prove very beneficial for us.

Tech co founder – I am looking for a Tech co-founder. A mentor can help me in connecting to some potential co-founders in his/her network.

Get a Mentor, Not a Teacher

Mentoring is supposed to be an intensive, individualized and private experience. If you aren’t getting one-on-one attention, you’ve got a teacher -- not a mentor.

Unfortunately, this presents a challenge for both parties. For mentors, it means turning down capable protégés if you’ve already committed to another. And for students, it could mean going to the trouble of identifying the perfect mentor only to be turned down for scheduling reasons -- which may or may not be explained to you.

Don’t push it. The goal of a mentoring relationship is progress, and that’s only possible if the guidance is individualized. There is a mentor or protégé out there for you, but you’ve got to wait for the timing to be right.

(taken from http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/270752)