Mentoring with the ISBA

Mentoring for most individuals seems easy, routine, and straightforward. However, a good relationship between a mentee and mentor can mean all the difference between those 'in the know,' and those… well, not.

Many attorneys meticulously fill their billable hours with client meetings, paperwork, trials, and court cases that seem to drag on, while a healthy work-life balance is constantly put on the back burner. Other attorneys seem to thrive on a busy schedule, mastering the rigorous life of a practicing attorney with ease. So where is a newly admitted attorney or law student preparing for the bar to turn for advice as they begin their career? The answer for those of us here in Iowa is the Build the Bar Mentorship Program.

At the beginning of the year The Iowa State Bar Association launched the Build the Bar Mentorship Program. This program looks to close the knowledge gap between well-seasoned attorneys and those preparing to enter the profession. Having a mentor guiding you through the new challenges and unforeseen mysteries of the legal system can have a major impact. A good mentor can help you find the "perfect" practice area, develop essential skills, and navigate those challenges all new attorneys will face along the way. Mentorship is a valuable connection within the legal community and can even help in further progressing through your career.

Mentoring isn't just about the benefits mentees receive. As a mentor, you gain the opportunity to give back to your profession and share your knowledge with the next generation of legal professionals. It is also important to note that mentoring can keep you mentally sharp by keeping you up to date on the latest trends and giving you, the mentor, a fresh perspective through the eyes of your mentee.

The ISBA utilizes a unique platform called Mentorloop, that makes the entirety of the process smooth, straightforward, and easy! Mentorloop finds what matters to you most and recommends the top matches for you! It allows mentors and mentees to set goals, track progress, and even offers an ever-growing library of resources to support you throughout the mentoring process.

Whether you are a new lawyer hungry for guidance or a seasoned attorney looking to give back to the profession, the ISBA's Build the Bar Mentorship Program is here for you. It's your chance to learn, grow, and connect with the strong, passionate, and welcoming legal community here in Iowa. Join us and take your legal career to the next level!

Visit the Iowa Bar Blog for more news.