Being asked to mentor is one of the most uplifting compliments you will ever receive. It’s a mark of respect and acknowledgment of your achievement, and a heck of a confidence boost when you see your guidance being put into action and your mentoree kicking goals.
Mentoring relationships take work; it’s not about just showing up, having a coffee and a chat and making a date to see the person in a month or so. You have to be prepared to give time for not just for one on one sessions but also, completing any actions that may be required, such as research or attending networking opportunities. Mentorees often need someone to quickly discuss options in some circumstances, you need to be available as need arises, either by email, message or in person.
Each mentor/mentoree relationship is different, so there is not a formulaic one size fits all approach to where, when, how and why? And certainly the outcomes of the connection vary differently dependent on level of need, activity or time available.
Before you jump head long into mentoring someone, here are 5 bits of advice that I give you so that you will be a huge success.
- The outcome of the relationship will be based on the quality of time you spend together, not the quantity. Make sure both you and your mentoree are fully prepared for each session with questions and topics shared prior. Additional items kicked around on the day can be minuted for further discussion or investigation.
- Never just limit talk to the here and now. Yes, they will want guidance on what is going on with their current job and life. But for greater success, make them think outside the box and reach for the stars so that they are looking to the future. Get them to work on planning their dream life and job and the steps they can follow to get there. Having someone who supports their dreams will give them courage to go for it.
- Don’t let your mentoree drop the ball; make sure they are aware and in charge of setting venues, agendas, taking notes or minutes from your meetings. This way they have responsibility to make it all happen and any actions for either of you are available for review.
- Mentoring is a two way street, don’t let it all be give, sharing the learning makes it more beneficial for both of you. Find an area where your mentoree is proficient that you could use a hand with. It doesn’t have to be business related although; technology is usually one area where young mentorees have one up on their mentors.
- Be grateful to be afforded the opportunity. When someone places such a high level of trust in you, there are times you might wobble and think am I giving the right advice. But a mentor/mentoree relationship is one where open discussion between two willing parties leads to new ideas and breakthroughs. It is not about telling someone what to do. Success comes from positivity, both being willing to explore and hashing out any issues together.
Sayings that I love about sharing and interaction that can directly relate to the mentoring situation.
“When one teaches, two learn.”
“The expert in everything was once a beginner.”
And the oldie but goodie…
“It takes two to tango”
Are you interested in being a mentor? Share you thoughts in the comments below as to whether you would be interested in a ‘How to Mentor’ eCourse.
Share to be inspired, be inspired to share.
