To find a business mentor means to have a constant helping hand- whether your business is struggling or booming.

Mentorship comes in different forms. All it takes is to find one that will continuously guide you through every entrepreneurial decision you make. So if you're in need of a little guidance, here are the best ways to find a business mentor.

1. Know your company's needs and desires.

First, you need to know exactly why you need a mentor. Is it because you want to increase your customers? Is it to develop your employees and co-workers? Is it to improve you as the leader?

It's one thing to have an idea of what kind of business mentor you're seeking. It's another for that mentor to meet the demands of your company. So isolate the issues at hand before you approach someone who may not be the right person.

2. Make a short list of your ideal mentor's abilities.

Lois Zachary, the president of Arizona-based coaching firm Leadership Development Services suggests that you make a list of the skills and abilities your ideal mentor should possess.

You could include on your list characteristics like "a good listener", "have a good amount of experience" or "someone with good connections". Just keep in mind that you need to compromise, as you are not looking for a perfect person but a real one who can efficiently mentor you.

3. Don't be limited to your niche.

A common mistake among start up entrepreneurs is they limit themselves in finding a business mentor only within their niche/industry. This already diminishes your chances of expanding your business and growing your numbers.

Get out of your comfort zone and let someone with a fresh perspective help you out. This might just be the change you need to give your venture its much needed boost.

Remember: Finding a mentor is also a form of investment. That's why it's critical to make your every effort, time and budget count.