Find a Hacker Mentor and be a Hacker Mentee

Find a Hacker Mentor and be a Hacker Mentee

Want to find a mentor? Want to know how to be a mentee? Well, check out Timothy De Block’s episodes of the Exploring Information Security podcast. I was on along with Javvad Malik (@J4vv4d), Johnny Xmas (@J0hnnyXm4s), and Amanda Berlin (@InfoSystir). If you’re wondering where to start, here is your answer.

First, how to find a mentor? Decide what you want to learn and where you want to strengthen. Keep an eye on the people you already know. Be curious, be humble, and seek advice. Offer something in return, even something as simple as sharing your story.

Finally, how to be a good mentee? Be specific in your requests and keep your commitments. Expect to put in the work. We need to realize that mentors are guides, not teachers, and that we are there to dig and hunt and learn. Show up and follow through.

In the end, its about applying the hacker mindset to mentoring. So take a listen.

Edit 2017-01/14: Once you’re done listening, check out the relaunch of the InfoSec Mentors Project. Headed up by Jimmy Vo (@JimmyVo) and Keith Hoodlet (@andMYhacks), The InfoSec Mentors Project provides a platform for finding and connecting mentors and mentees.

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