Sometime ago, I was invited to speak on the role of mentors in the media. For better part of the time, we get approached by people who want us to mentor them and then you wonder why you, especially when the supposed mentee does not even come from your field of practice. Not to worry, find below what you should arm yourself with before agreeing to be the mentor.
As a mentor, ask yourself: Are you ready for this? Are you ready to share your story to inspire? Are you ready to go the nine yards? If yes, Then proceed to the next stage where you should know your functions.
Mentors must be ready to:
- to inspire mentee
- guide
- Motivate
- Counsel: listen to mentee, ask questions
- Provide emotional support if need be
- Help mentee explore career options
- Set goals for development
- Develop Mentees contacts and sources
- Identify resources useful for your mentee
- Be the cheer leader and reprimand constructively where necessary
However, Do not:
- Choke your mentee: give him or her some space
- Quickly build a personal relationship so you don’t end it on a sour note
- Force your solutions in conflict and avoid inappropriate discussion.
Why does the Mentee need a mentor? If the Mentees answer does not correspond with what you have below, then disengage. Yes Disengage.
- To enrich your life professionally and personally
- To develop your motivating skills as well so that you can give back
- Help you become a better manager, employee or team member
Characteristics of a mentor
- Enthusiastic
- Respectful of others
- A good fit
- Respected expert with cognate experience
Do you fit into the Characteristics above? If no disengage.
What are those traits you should look for in a mentee
- Readiness to be mentored
- You must have mutual interest
- You must be compatible
- You have to be clear about your roles
- Mentee must be ready to develop his or her skills.
As a mentee, don’t forget that its not all the time to go approach someone to be your mentor. There are different types of mentors
Mentors by default: These are great leaders, they possess people qualities, they are exceptional leaders who you can find either as your Bosses or team leaders.
Accidental mentors – these are people who teach you things you will never learn in a formal way. Either in the society, place of work or on a project.
Deliberate mentors: These are the mentors you have observed over a period of time and you deliberately approach them to mentor you.
Mentors by performance: These are the Mentors who have studied you and your character and are impressed by your performance . They will come to meet you, commend you and help push you further in life.
Whatever category you have found your mentor, endeavour to make good you of the opportunity as they don’t always come all the time.