Tips for Mentors
A mentoring relationship can be mutually beneficial for both the Mentor and the Mentored. The ultimate success and satisfaction from mentoring is the development of a strong relationship with another person. As a mentor, you have the opportunity to provide information to another about your past and present professions while assisting students with their career goals and guiding them on to the correct path.
A mentoring relationship takes time and energy. It is important to understand your role before making the commitment to be a mentor. We hope that you find these tips useful as you begin your journey.
Define the Relationship
It is important to determine expectations for the relationship. It can be a short term, one call/meeting, or it can be an ongoing relationship, depending upon the student and your time restraints. Before you commit to anything, ensure that both of your expectations are consistent with one another.
Set Boundaries
Upon your first interaction, set clear boundaries and ground rules. Determine what you will be willing to talk about and what will be considered off limits. Some mentoring relationships will cover career topics as well as personal topics; however, some people are uncomfortable sharing about specific topics. Make sure to set guidelines for your interactions (how long, how often they may contact you, what means may they contact you). Serving as an advocate for career advancement or becoming involvement in personal business is out of bounds.
Be Prepared
The student should come prepared, however, you may want to prepare yourself for different questions that may be asked or information that you might want to share. It is helpful to have a list of talking point with topics such as what it was like to start out, information about your organization, what experience/education was needed, etc. An agenda is often helpful. Prior to the meeting, create a joint agenda that will lead the discussion. This enables both parties to prepare for the meeting.
Get Involved
Ask important and challenging questions that help the student think on their own. Engage the student with open-ended questions and try to ask personal questions that are applicable in the job setting. Knowing a person's interests will help you lead them into a career that it is best suited for their interests.
Explore Options
A mentoring relationship does not need to be limited to phone calls and coffee meetings. Invite the student to different professional events or lead them in activities that help them become more involved in the relationship. Role playing activities, learning activities, mock interviews, brainstorming and coaching activities are all helpful in building necessary kills for their future careers.
Share Your Knowledge
Remember that you are not expected to be an expert or know everything. It is important to share your knowledge and experience but to also remember your limitations. Help the student determine the proper resources they need. As a mentor you are the idea generator, teacher and facilitator. Share what you've learned but do not expect to have all the answers.
Determine the Next Step
At the close of every interaction, be sure to summarize what was covered and then identify what comes next. Determine who is going to make the next contact, how, and when. This will help clarify who is responsible for making the next contact and ensure that the relationship continues if desired.