I believe a mentorship should go both ways. I know that I need to put in a lot of effort in order to get everything I can out of a mentorship. I am looking for some tips and ideas to learn how to be a better mentee.
Answers
First, be easy on yourself. Mentor/mentee is familial, friendly, and hopefully not strained. I am a mentor, and i don't know if I am doing it right, but here's an analogy: How would you treat an adult child, without all the baggage and judgmental stuff that comes with everything from years of wiping noses, lecturing on homework, or bailing a kid out of jail? If the mentor is trying to help, let 'im help. Don't clam up. Be honest, don't hold anything back... the mentor wants to help you get where you want to go, without making the mistakes he or she made back in the day when in your shoes. Take notes on advice. When you make a commitment, make it happen. And keep a sense of humor. MOST IMPORTANT: the relationship is truly reciprocal. Trust cuts both ways. Good luck, marine. Semper fi.
Michael. I just completed a training course online from my company because I had the same question as you. The most helpful tip I learned is to discuss up front if it a formal or informal mentorship. formal mentorship has goals and deadlines and a specific purpose such as build a resume. Informal is what I have with my mentee. We have been discussing more personal matters and it is going great. The latter is more difficult if you can't meet face to face. You have to establish trust and be completely open and honest (usually first), this will aloow them to feel more comfortale telling you personal stuff. Reinforce that what is said will stay in confidence - and then keep the promise. Take care and good luck.
Hi Michael,
I agree with everything that Kevin and Ray both said. Most important, be honest with your mentor. I currently head up a mentoring committee for a national networking association and mentor 2 individuals for another and want to know that my menthes are equally committed to the relationship as I am. Honesty is always the best policy.
Good luck!
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