Nobody gets to where they are by themselves. We all have folks along the way that have helped us in some way - making an introduction, inspiring some confidence, even just holding space to talk out loud. If you’re at the point in your career where you’re able to be that for someone, here are some points to consider in order to be a good (or even great) mentor!
- Listen, listen, listen - it’s easy to rush into problem solving mode and try to fix things, but it’s so important to ask “Do you want advice or do you want to vent?” In that moment what they might need the most is to get it out to someone who understands.
- Be honest - you’re not doing them a favour by glossing over things that can hinder their career. It might be uncomfortable but growth is just that. People respond to feedback in different ways so it’s key to know from the start how they prefer to receive it, in order for it to truly resonate.
- Set boundaries - you are not their therapist. If the lines are starting to become blurry, or you become concerned, try to explain that you’re not qualified to help in that way but you can offer resources for folks that are. Don’t give out your personal number, it sets the expectation that you are available at all hours of the day and continues to blur lines. Start out with one mentee and gauge how much time you have to dedicate to them before taking on too many at once.
- Utilize your network - you may not be able to help with everything, but odds are you know someone who can! This is one of the biggest resources you have that someone looking for mentorship might still be building out.
- Have confidence - you WILL get imposter syndrome, it’s natural. Who am I to be guiding someone? Do I even have anything to offer? What if they think I’m not knowledgeable enough? Push past those negative thoughts and remember that you know your stuff! Every time you help a mentee through a problem or offer insight, it adds a drop of confidence to your bucket. The more you do it the more you’ll realize “hey I am a helpful resource” and you’ll find your mentee filling up that bucket - helping you in a way you may not have expected.
Being a mentor is one of the most rewarding parts of my career and I hope it is for you one day too! If you’re nervous about getting started or need a pep talk, message me on LinkedIn - I’m always happy to help!