Mentoring involves the use of the same models and skills of questioning, listening, clarifying and reframing associated with coaching. Mentoring relationships work best when they move beyond the directive approach of a senior colleague ‘telling it how it is’, to one where both learn from each other. An effective mentoring relationship is a learning opportunity for both parties. It is also imporant to note that once a match has been made, it's the hands of the mentee to organise meetings and work with you to achieve their goals.  Handing ownership of the partnership to the mentee early on can help make great progress and lead to a strong relationship.

One of the ways you can approach your role as a mentor is through the ‘Grow’ method:

Issue

Considering the challenge that the mentee is facing; is it that they don’t know what kind of career they would like to have, or they need support to access opportunities in a specific industry?

Goal

Going through the goal setting process with your mentee will help you to understand what their short and long term objectives are.

Reality

What is the mentee’s current position? How can you support them in creating a path from their current reality towards their goals?

Options

Consider all of the options available to your mentee: are there paths that they might not have thought of? What are the pros and cons of each option?

Way Forward

Empower your mentee to make their own decision about the best way forward for them.

Commitment

Commitment from both yourself as a mentor and the mentee towards the plan, and scheduling regular reviews and check ins will help the mentee to feel supported in their progress.

Here are some questions you can use to prompt your mentee in your first meeting:

● What is the experience you are looking to create?
● What will you do first?
● How much energy/time are you willing to put into that?
● What does success look like?
● How will you know when you have reached your goal?
● What could I do to support you?
● What’s holding you back?
● What are you waiting for?

Other Useful Links:

Code of Conduct for Mentee and Mentors

Giving back to your Community through Mentoring

A Guide for Mentees: How Mentoring can help you

Goal Setting for Mentees

How to be a Mentor