Mentorship

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On 8/29/2003 5:30:24 PM New2this wrote:

How do you go about finding a mentor in this industry? Thank you for all replies.
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HI Darren:

Well first a good thing to do is put yourself out there.

Where do you live and would you be willing to move if you were to find such an opportunity.

Darren: I am currently in the process of working on my GG through the correspondance courses through the GIA. I spend my free time reading books on gemstones and gem identification.

here's my advice to you,

Find someone local or abroad which you think might be a reputable person which shares the same passion for you in your attempt to get involved in the industry (someone who is already established that is)Search for opportunities in the industry, usually you will have to start somewhere in retail to gain some basic general knowledge of dealing with customers and getting a taste for the retail side of the industry.

If I were you I would type a nice formal short letter of intent. Make it professional , but personal and include some of your passions for what you want to pursue and your genuine interest in being motivated in going into the industry. I wouldn't asks for job opp's right away, but put yourself out there. Depending on the response you get from your inquires I would jump at an opportunity to work with someone side by side in the industry if they are willing to help. Big Corporate chains or mall stores I wouldn't waste my time on. My focus would be a established local jeweler with more of a sense of integrity in giving you insight on a broad range of things he will teach you about the industry. Find someone personable and after conversation, someone you know you would click with well...Just my ideas because I am a more touchy feely kind of guy and don't want to be chewed up and spit out. it is important for peole like yourselves to be handled in a manner of patience when being taught about the basics of the industry and how things will evolve when you ultimately decide what direction you want to head in...

PM me if you would like and maybe we can exchange some ideas...

I hope this helps..

-Josh Rioux
Sitka, Alaska

[img src='http://www.pricescope.com/idealbb/images/smilies/wavey.gif'>

Josh Rioux
Haines, Alaska
*The Colored Gemstone Nut*

Darren Robinson