I can say without hesitation: I would not have made it as a trader without the mentorship I received early on in my career.
At Trillium, I had the rare opportunity to be guided nearly every day by one of the most successful traders in the firm’s history. He didn’t hold anything back — his strategies, his thinking, even his mistakes. Still, even with that kind of near one-on-one support, my learning curve was brutally steep.
That’s how difficult trading really is.
Without a mentor in this game, the odds are seriously stacked against you. Almost every elite trader I know credits part of their success to someone who helped them learn the ropes — someone who took the time to teach, guide, and challenge them.
But let’s be honest: finding a great mentor isn’t easy, especially if you’re not at a firm that values training and development. So how do you actually go about finding someone who’s willing to invest in your growth and help you level up?
Here’s a practical, no-BS guide to finding and building a real mentor relationship in the trading world.
1. Look Just a Step or Two Ahead
One of the most common mistakes people make is trying to get mentorship from someone too far ahead of them — someone who’s a superstar in the industry. But those individuals are often too busy, or too far removed from the problems you’re facing.
Instead, aim to connect with someone just a little more experienced than you — someone who recently overcame the same challenges you’re facing. They’ll be more empathetic, more accessible, and more likely to remember what it was like to be in your shoes.
2. Leverage the Network You Already Have
Your current network is probably richer than you think. Mutual connections, shared alma maters, trading communities, social media groups — these are all great starting points for building genuine relationships.
Cold outreach works best when there’s at least some shared connection. A total stranger with no context is much less likely to invest their time. Start with your circle, and let relationships develop from there.
3. Keep Your First Message Short and Respectful
When you do reach out to someone, keep it short. Seriously. Nobody wants to read a five-paragraph essay from someone they don’t know. Your message should be respectful of their time and direct about what you’re looking for.
Follow the “no-scroll” rule: if they have to scroll to read your message, it’s too long. Introduce yourself, mention any shared connection or reason you’re reaching out, and make a light ask (or even no ask at all — just open the door).
4. Put Effort into Every Interaction
Mentors notice the small things. Sloppy grammar, vague questions, or generic compliments make it seem like you’re not serious.
Be intentional. If you’re asking a question, make it specific. If you’re reaching out, make sure your message is polished. Thoughtfulness shows commitment — and that makes people more likely to invest time in you.
5. Let the Relationship Build Organically
Too many people go straight for the big ask: “Can we hop on a call?” or “Can you mentor me?” That’s the wrong move.
Start small. Ask for quick advice over text or email. If the conversation goes well, it may naturally lead to a longer call or meeting. Don’t force it — let it grow based on trust and mutual interest.
6. Find Ways to Offer Value
This one is huge. Mentorship isn’t a one-way street. The best relationships are built on mutual value.
You might not have trading alpha to offer yet, but you can share useful articles, help with small research tasks, or offer to handle tasks that free up their time. And don’t just ask “How can I help?” — do the work upfront and show how you can contribute.
It’s kind of like unpaid internships — you’re investing in an opportunity that has a high upside if you commit to it.
7. Always Show Gratitude and Give Updates
Mentors aren’t doing it for the money. They do it because they enjoy seeing others grow — especially if their advice actually helps someone succeed.
Let them know when something they said made a difference. Give them quick updates on how things are going. It doesn’t have to be frequent, but it should be meaningful. That kind of feedback fuels the relationship and makes mentors feel like their time was well spent.
8. Respect Their Time and Boundaries
This should go without saying, but don’t be a pest. Be mindful of their time — no late-night texts, no spamming if they don’t respond, and no expectations that they’re “on call” for you.
If someone hasn’t responded after two or three messages, take the hint. It’s either not the right time or not the right fit. Don’t treat it like chasing an ex. Be respectful and move on.
9. Become a Connector
Over time, think about how you can support your mentor’s goals. Can you introduce them to someone interesting? Connect them to resources? Share opportunities they might care about?
Once you understand what matters to them, you’ll start to spot ways to support their success too. That’s how you move from being “just a mentee” to being a true partner.
Mentorship That Lasts
The goal isn’t just to “get a mentor” — it’s to build a relationship that benefits both of you over time. If you approach this with humility, effort, and thoughtfulness, you can find someone who will help accelerate not just your trading journey, but your growth as a person.
And who knows? Someday, you might become that person for someone else.
What’s another option instead of a mentor? Find a trading pod!
