Go into your mentoring conversation with an idea of what you want to talk about. The mentor and the protégé should both prepare beforehand with questions and points that they want addressed.
It's always important to know your strengths and weaknesses as a mentor. Use a mentoring skills inventory to help evaluate yourself. Once you are aware of areas that need growth, work on trying to make improvements through working with your mentee. Click the link to see an example inventory document from sciencecareers.sciencemag.org
Honesty is essential in any mentoring relationship. If you disagree with your mentoring partners opinions, let him or her know in a respectful manner.
Remember that learning from your mentor does not necessarily mean imitating your mentor. Recognizing your differences while at the same time learning from their success is usually best.
As a mentor, take personal interest in your mentee. Learn their goals, aspirations, and desires. Legitimate care for your protégé can help ensure future success.
As a mentor, think carefully about feedback you want to give to your protégé. Try to create a balance between positive encouragement, and critiques on areas that need improvement.
Discuss expectations. Talk about how often you will meet with your mentor, and what you want to accomplish.
Your mentor is taking time away from his or her own life in order to assist you. A little appreciation can make a big difference, and may encourage them to mentor others in the future!
As a mentor, you have more to offer than just your knowledge. Use your networking and personal connections to assist your protégé in furthering their career or studies.
Active listeners listen with energy. They sit up straight, takes notes, and ask questions. Active listening is essential in a mentoring relationship because it reduces confusion, increases mutual understanding, and shows respect for the other’s opinions.
