Definition of ‘Mentoring’

Guidelines for Mentees:

1. Cultivate the Right Traits:

   • Patience: Recognize that mentoring is a gradual process. Set realistic goals and commit for the long term. Share openly if you do not have goals (yet).
   • Receptiveness: Be open to feedback, whether positive or constructive. Self-awareness accelerates progress.
   • Purposefulness: Act on your mentor’s advice. Take notes during sessions, create an action plan, and follow through.

2. Prepare for Mentoring Sessions:

   • Set the Agenda: Don’t rely solely on the mentor to drive the conversation. Think about your goals, create an agenda, and share it with your mentor prior to each conversation. Be open to modify this agenda if your mentor suggests more/other agenda items.
   • Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions to discuss during sessions. You will soon find a model with your mentor for which questions should be discussed in meetings and which questions can be asked through your online communication channel between meetings.
   • Review Previous Notes: Refresh your memory by reviewing notes from previous meetings.

3. Articulate Your Goals:

   • Clearly express your short-term and long-term objectives. Your mentor is there to help you achieve them. Seek guidance if needed. It is actually quite common not having set specific goals.

4. Share Feedback:

   • Provide feedback to your mentor. Let them know what’s working well and where adjustments are needed.

   • Be open about your expectations and preferences.

     

5. Nurture the Relationship:

   • Build trust and rapport. Show appreciation for your mentor’s time and insights.
   • Regularly check in, share progress, and celebrate milestones together.
   • Respect each others time and effort by showing up on time and come prepared.

Specific Questions for Mentees:

• How can I align my (career/project) goals with your expertise?
• What strategies do you recommend for overcoming specific challenges I’m facing?
• How can I leverage my strengths to achieve my objectives?

Guidelines for Mentors:

1. Authentic Connection Matters:
   • Prioritize building a genuine relationship with your mentee. Authenticity fosters trust and effective communication.
   • Understand their aspirations, challenges, and values.
2. Develop Character, Not Just Skills:
   • Go beyond job-related advice. Invest in your mentee’s self-awareness, empathy, and respect for others. Mindset really matters too. You are invited to review these human skills of relevant in a tech world.
   • Help your mentee grow as individuals, not just professionals.
3. Set Boundaries and Expectations:
   • Define the scope of your mentorship. Clarify expectations regarding role, time commitment, communication frequency, and confidentiality as well as other expectations you have.
   • Be transparent about your own preferences.
4. Experiment with Meeting Formats:
   • Consider group conversations or virtual meetings to optimize time and reach more mentees.
   • Leverage other commitments (e.g., professional events) as mentoring opportunities.