Tips for Students
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.
In a mentoring relationship, you have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of a professional and receive guidance as you develop your own career goals and direction. A mentoring relationship takes time and energy. 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 mentor 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. Make sure to set guidelines for your interactions (how long, how often they may contact you, what means may they contact you). It is inappropriate to ask a mentor for a job or personal favors.
Be Prepared
Before you make a phone call or send an email, be prepared. You should know the topics you wish to cover and the questions that you would like to ask. It is important to research their position and company so that you have a basic knowledge of what they do and where they work. It is helpful to have a list of talking point with topics such as what it was like to start out, information about their 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 so both parties are prepared for the meeting.
Present Your Best Self
In every interaction with your mentor, make sure to present your best possible self. E-mails need to be professional and double checked for spelling and grammar errors. When meeting in person, dress to impress and be properly groomed. Always arrive early and be prepared to take notes.
Be Brief
The mentor is taking time from their work day to visit with you. Remember to be respectful of their time when making phone calls, sending emails and asking for meetings.
Don't Be Afraid to be Personal
Share some of your interests and personality. A person is most successful in working environments that are conducive to their style. Your mentor will be able to help lead you into different areas depending upon your personal interests.
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.
Steps for Beginning a Mentoring Relationship
- Clarify your goal for the relationship. It is important to determine what information you hope to gain from the relationship and communicate that to your mentor.
- Make the contact by either calling the person or sending them a professional e-mail explaining that you received their information from CLU's program and that you would like to set up a chance to meet them. The first meeting should be brief, no more than 20 minutes.
- Set-up a meeting time and do your research!
- After the meeting, send a thank you note or hand-written card to show your appreciation for their time.