Mentoring is a relationship between two people with the goal of professional and personal development. The “mentor” is usually an experienced individual who shares knowledge, experience, and advice with a less experienced person, or “mentee.”
What can a mentor do for me?
A mentor may share with a mentee (or protege) information about his or her own career path, as well as provide guidance, motivation, emotional support, and role modeling. A mentor may help with exploring careers, setting goals, developing contacts, and identifying resources.
What are characteristics of a good mentor?
Characteristics of Excellent Mentors
- Good listener/sounding board.
- Flexible.
- Value diversity of perspectives.
- Knowledgeable.
- Nonjudgmental.
- Able to give constructive feedback.
- Honest and candid.
- Able to network and find resources.
What are the roles and responsibilities of a mentor?
Mentors provide guidance, advice, feedback, and support to the mentee, serving variously as role model, teacher, counselor, advisor, sponsor, advocate, and ally, depending on the specific goals and objectives negotiated with the mentee.
What are some good questions to ask a mentor?
Questions to Ask a Mentor
- What’s the best advice you can give to help plan a career rather than simply work to keep a job?
- How do you encourage innovative ideas?
- How would you describe your personal style?
- Do you have a mentor?
- What do you do to constantly challenge your underlying beliefs and assumptions?
How do you structure a mentoring session?
How to Run a Successful Mentoring Session
- Prepare Well and Set Clear Objectives for Your Mentoring Session. The mentor and mentee must have a shared understanding of what they wish to achieve from the session.
- Communicate Honestly.
- Choose a Comfortable Session Length.
- Commit to Actions and Review.
