Mentoring for Growth
Mentoring can be mutually rewarding for all concerned. It enables mentors to give something back to others; to show appreciation for the support and guidance they may have been given. For mentees, it offers an opportunity to discuss challenges and ideas with others who may have experienced similar situations. Sometimes just talking about issues can help to view them differently, or to confirm that things are on track.
Successful mentoring doesn’t just happen – it requires knowledge, courtesy and management. At the initial meeting, both parties should discuss the mentoring process and set goals for what they wish to achieve. Future sessions should follow up on tasks from previous meetings, then set new goals and tasks.
The Australian Women’s Mentoring Network - www.womensmentoring.com.au, offers the following guidelines:
- Only agree to be a mentor / mentee if you can commit to the process.
- This is a business arrangement and you should conduct yourself professionally.
- Allow time for the relationship to develop.
- Respect the right of the other person to terminate the mentoring.
- Confidentiality is crucial between mentor and mentee, and you must observe any confidentiality clauses you may have signed.
- Always take the same safety precautions you normally would when meeting a stranger for the first time.
Role of Mentors:
- Sharing information, expertise and knowledge.
- Introducing mentees to new contacts.
- Looking out for opportunities for mentees.
- Guiding mentees; encouraging them to develop skills and solutions to their challenges.
- Being a role model.
Role of Mentees:
- Commitment to learning and personal development.
- Make the most of opportunities.
- Open communication.
- Providing mentors with feedback and asking for their opinions.
- Valuing mentors.
Preparing a Mentoring Agreement ensures both parties know what to expect. This agreement can include:
- How often the mentoring will take place;
- How the mentoring will take place (face-to-face, telephone, e-mail);
- Any costs involved and the terms of payment;
- What each party can expect; and
- Each party’s responsibilities.