We would be missing out on something if we did not prepare a do’s and don’ts list for you!
Here you go:
Do's:
- be committed to this new relationship
- be an active listener! Guide and help her put her ideas into action
- find constructive ways to challenge your mentee
- share similar experiences so your mentee understands that her problem is not unique
- use open questions to encourage the mentee to think creatively and form her own conclusions
- let mentees know that there are no shortcuts
- this is a valuable time for the mentees. Please focus on their business, as you are the expert in that field
- respect your mentee, her values & beliefs
- get her focus on the things that need to be done
- encourage her by pointing out her skills
- be consistent, but flexible. Expect changes in plans
- always do follow-ups
- foster a caring and supportive relationship. Showing that you care will boost confidence
- it is a common remark that mentors learn from mentees a great deal
- focus on developing the mentee professionally and personally
- support and facilitate. You do not have all the answers; you are a ‘learning facilitator’
- explain your personal work style and preferences
- remind your mentee to prepare a written outline or an agenda for the meeting
- after the meeting take notes of what was discussed and progress made
Don'ts:
- expect your mentee to lead every meeting or suggest activity
- make your mentee learn by trial
- give random advice or criticism
- expect a clone of yourself
- talk negatively about your mentee to others
- lecture
- share personal problems unless it is related to the current disposition
- lend money
- assume the role of the problem solver
- impose your vision
- attempt to force your mentee in one direction
- forget she knows her business better than anyone else