What a useful session looks like
Bring a concise problem brief, the evidence you have, and what you have already tried. Ask the mentor to explain the context behind their advice. End with a specific action and review point so you can learn whether the suggestion fits your business.
Clarify the relationship
Mentoring, paid advisory work, consulting, and implementation are different arrangements. Confirm expectations, scope, availability, confidentiality, conflicts, and any payment before starting. A mentor is not automatically a co-founder, decision maker, or service provider.