Alexander, Amy. "Achieve Dreams And Speed Up Success By Clicking With Mentors" - Investors.com. 23 Jan. 2012

If you find a mentor to help you achieve your goals, you'll be promoted five times more often than your peers, says a survey conducted by Gartner Research. Mentors? They move up six times more than the competition. The lesson: Mentoring pays, whether you're giving or taking advice. Keys:

• Screen. Step one: Read industry publications and books to find that dream mentor, advises psychologist and executive coach Debra Condren. "Turn off the tube and inspire your creativity by reading about all of the cool ideas that are being kicked around," Condren, author of "Ambition Is Not a Dirty Word," told IBD.

• List. Write down your dream squad of paid and unpaid professionals. It might feature accountants and attorneys as well as professional and industry leaders, Condren teaches.
• Keep moving. "Success loves speed," Condren said. "As soon as you finish each meeting, immediately implement each piece of advice your mentor recommends. Don't wait or procrastinate."
• Tell your story. Mentors want to hear from you, even years later. Said Condren: "Keep advisers updated on your big-win accomplishments."