Building a successful startup is a challenging journey, especially without years of experience to your name. Running a Gen Z-operated company like DAPPA has required greater efforts to build credibility and trust with investors, particularly in the emerging tech space.

In 2024, we secured funding from two top Australian investors, which afforded us the privilege of transformative mentoring opportunities as we built out an AI-based solution to consumer issues within the fashion industry.

Below I’ve shared some insights on how to cultivate meaningful mentor relationships that can help accelerate growth both personally and professionally.

Seek alignment between vision and values

When it comes to mentorship, alignment is key. Identifying mentors who not only understand your business goals but also share your values is an essential ingredient in a successful relationship.

For DAPPA, that meant finding mentors who really believed in our vision of tech-driven simplicity and innovation to simplify wardrobe management. Our investors understand what we’re building and how it can transform people’s daily dressing routines, shopping habits and more.

This alignment helps ensure that mentors are genuinely invested in your success and philosophically aligned with your mission. Transparency, clear communication and having a clear outline of goals will help you find a mentor who sees where you’re going and can help as you navigate the steps to get there.

Proactively research and network

Finding mentors to learn from involves keeping your finger on the pulse in your industry. Search for industry leaders on LinkedIn, attend relevant webinars and consume content created by potential mentors.

We treated it like building a targeted list of advisors who could guide us through specific challenges, whether in tech, fashion or business development.

Approach mentorship as a two-way street

One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is that mentorship is not a one-sided relationship. While mentors provide guidance and expertise, mentees can offer fresh perspectives and energy in return.

As Gen Z founders, we’ve grown up immersed in digital culture and have a unique understanding of how technology intersects with daily life. Being able to share these insights into the behaviors of younger consumers and emerging trends has helped us build reciprocal relationships with our mentors.

By offering something of value in return, whether it’s insights, enthusiasm or even assistance with projects, you can ensure the relationship is mutually beneficial.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

For many young entrepreneurs, approaching established professionals can feel intimidating. Push past that fear and just ask. Most people are incredibly generous with their time and advice if you approach them respectfully and thoughtfully. The key is to be specific about what you’re seeking and why you’re reaching out to them in particular.

Instead of a generic request for mentorship, highlight why you admire their work and how their expertise might align with your needs. Make it clear that you value their time.

Leverage your mentors’ networks

Beyond the direct advice and guidance mentors offer, their networks can be a goldmine of opportunities. Our mentors didn’t just guide us through complex decisions; they also opened doors we couldn’t have accessed on our own.

It’s not what you know, but who. These introductions led to conversations with potential partners, additional investors and even industry experts who provided critical insights into the fashion-tech landscape.

Approach every introduction with professionalism and gratitude and keep your mentors updated on progress as you go.

Learn to filter and apply advice

One challenge of working with multiple mentors is navigating differing opinions. Not all advice, no matter how well-intentioned, will be applicable to your specific situation.

Listen carefully, consider the context and ultimately decide what best aligns with your vision and goals. Because no-one knows your business like you do.

Stay open to growth and feedback

One of the most impactful aspects of mentorship is the opportunity to receive honest, constructive feedback. Our mentors have been instrumental in helping identify blind spots and areas for improvement.

Mentorship isn’t just about validation; it’s about growth. Feedback has pushed us to refine our business model, streamline our pitch and strengthen team dynamics. By staying open to critique and viewing it as an opportunity to grow, we’re able to turn potential weaknesses into strengths.

Express gratitude and maintain relationships

Mentorship doesn’t end with a single conversation or project. Maintain relationships by regularly updating mentors on progress and express gratitude for their support. A simple thank you email or a quick update about a milestone can go a long way in keeping the relationship alive.

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of our success. By seeking alignment, approaching relationships as reciprocal and staying open to growth, we’ve built impactful connections that provide the inspiration and support needed to turn ambitious visions into reality.

Opinions expressed by The CEO Magazine contributors are their own.