There are some basic rules for creating a mentoring relationship. If you have a mentor who has a positive outlook, you can expect that person to inspire you to achieve greater heights. The best mentors should be able to step back from their own feelings and let their mentee make the decisions. One key attribute of a good mentor is patience, as not everyone will grasp new ideas as quickly as a mentor. In addition, your working style may not suit everyone.
A great mentor will have the experience to provide their mentee with opportunities to grow. He or she will know how to connect you to people in your dream job, recommend conferences and networking events, and note your growth areas. Your mentor should also have the bandwidth to offer new projects to your mentee over time. In addition, you should have a mentor who has an open mind and is willing to invest time in you.
Make sure you have a specific issue that you would like to work on. The mentor can provide analysis, but it's best to bring your own analysis to the table so that you can both work together to solve the problem. It's important to remember that the time of a mentor is precious and you need to make the most of it. This means bringing a list of questions or issues to discuss with your mentor before setting up a meeting.
Finding a good mentor means valuing the relationship and being open to tough love. Mentors who are open-minded and willing to share their wisdom are the best mentors. They aren't in it for personal gain and are not quick to give up. They care about their relationships with their mentees and aren't afraid to confront someone who is not willing to listen to their opinions. It's not always easy to find good mentors and you may end up with a relationship that is less than fruitful.
A mentor's role is to be a support system and an inspiration. Having a mentor will improve your self-esteem. In addition to being a positive role model, it can help you achieve your goals and make you a more attractive employee. The relationship should be mutually beneficial, and you should have a shared interest in the mentee's success. The more positive the relationship between a mentor and a mentee, the more likely they will succeed.
Good mentors have the patience and listening skills to guide their mentee. They take the time to understand the path the mentee is on and direct them to it. Mentoring is as much about counseling as it is about imparting knowledge and leadership skills. It takes practice and commitment to build an effective mentoring relationship. You should be prepared to make mistakes and show your mentee that they're allowed to do that.