I enjoy sharing my knowledge, but being a leader is about continual learning, and we all need support to thrive. Look for someone in your field who is four to seven years ahead of you: someone you admire, someone who has clearly used a specific strategy to get ahead. It may be a well-known person, or it may be someone at your workplace. Get in touch ask if they have time for coffee and to tell you their story. Prep your meeting by identifying some key areas in your work with which you are struggling, and drop your concerns into the conversation. Do they become animated and excited to help and share, or do they furrow their brow at the pain of having to be of service?

I recently met an incredible ex-newspaper editor and now business adviser, and I wanted to be around her again to learn more. She was forthcoming with her advice, and although she hadn’t built a startup herself, she was passionate about technology. I was sold.

When you find your mentor, let them know clearly what you want, because they are busy. “I’d love you to mentor me, and that means an hour over coffee every other month, so I can share where I am and hear your feedback.” Make it as easy as possible for them. Schedule three meetings in advance, go to wherever they are and turn up prepared. Mentors are usually a progressive bunch and there’s a satisfaction in seeing a younger version of themself in someone and helping to water the seeds of change. Mentees can bring them fresh energy and ideas. My best mentees update me with what they’re up to, and when I give advice, they do the work and come back with progress. Mentoring someone is a joy when you can see them flourish. Be a good mentee, and one day you’ll be a great mentor.

• Sharmadean Reid is the founder of WAH Nails and beautystack.com