What is the best way to approach someone to mentor me?

I was at a panel discussion last week held by an influential networking group I am a part of. One of the speakers on the panel was someone who has risen from a lot of adversity and the odds stacked against him and is now managing 10 billion. I was very inspired by his story, and how astute yet approachable he seemed.

I got in touch with the organizer of the event and got the gentleman's email address. I would like to tell him how inspired I was by him.. he also seems like he would be an excellent mentor.

Is it okay to say something like "I just wanted to let you know that as someone who is in a similar position to yours when you first started, I was very inspired by your story. And I was wondering - do you frequently mentor people on their path?"

Thoughts?

Edit: Thanks so much for your responses. I have sent him an email saying I would like to learn more about his journey and asking if I could buy him lunch.

3 Comments
 

Agree with above statement. Also, don't use the word 'mentor', it makes it sound contrived. Just tell him you were inspired by his story and would love to hear more. Can I buy you lunch?

 

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