How to Find a Role Model to Shadow

If I say the word, "internship", you know what I mean. You know how to find one, how to get one, and even how to make the most of one. And if you don't, there are tons of books you can read, web sites you can visit, and people you can talk to about it. But what about shadowing?

Shadowing is essentially becoming right-hand person to of a role model of yours. Instead of starting at the bottom of an organization, you start at the top. Speaking from experience, shadowing can be an incredible experience. Over the past three years, I've had the great pleasure of shadowing the president of the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship and it has changed my life. In The Student Success Manifesto I talk more about what shadowing is and its benefits.

However, this article actually talks about how to get your role model to take you on. Below are tips you can use:

• Get an Introduction. When you shadow somebody you will more than likely see confidential documents. Therefore, building trust is critical. Getting in the door via an introduction may be the best step you can take.
  
• Become a Star Alumnus: Joining nonprofits that serve youth such as summer programs, colleges, and seminars can be extremely powerful for learning and growth. At the same time, many of these organizations are run by incredible people and must gain the support of the powerful and wealthy to grow. By becoming a star alumnus, you may get access to the top of the organization and to the key people who support it. The better you do, the better the organization looks.
  
• Have an Informational Interview: Many of your role models have probably never had somebody shadow them before. Therefore, you need to make them feel comfortable with the whole process. Just like AOL gives away a free, one-month trial, you should start by asking your potential targets to have lunch with you and offer their advice.
  
• Invite Him/Her to Speak at Your School: People generally enjoying speaking at colleges and universities. As such, by inviting your target to your school, you build a relationship with your target, help other students, and show that you are an actor and influencer.
  
• Help Him/Her: Being young doesn't mean you can't add value to others. You have a fresh perspective, understanding of youth culture, and most likely a strong grasp of technology. These three things alone can be extremely helpful to your target. You can begin to understand your target's needs by researching him/her and the organizations they're a part of.

There is no set process to shadowing, so have fun and be creative. This can be a very rewarding experience. At the same time, realize that the process of building a relationship can take a long time. Good Luck!

Posted at August 14, 2005 10:20 AM