Useful Tips for Mentors

• Listen actively
  
  Be an "active" listener. That means doing the following:
  • Give your undivided attention.
  • Stay off your computer, and avoid disruptions.
  • Hear your mentee out. Avoid interrupting.
  • When meeting in person, be aware of your non-verbal cues such as nodding, smiling, and maintaining eye contact.
  • To ensure that you heard the person correctly,

  Paraphrase
  "As I understand . . ."
  "So, you're saying that . . ."
  "Let me see if I got that . . ."

  Summarize
  "So, your three concerns are . . ."
  "There seem to be a few issues . . ."
  

  So, our main goals at this time are . . ."

  • Provide constructive criticism and impromptu feedback.
  • Use your knowledge and experience to help your mentee to identify and build on his/her strengths.
  • Encourage and motivate mentee to move beyond his/her comfort zone.
  • Support and facilitate professional networking.
  • The best mentor relationships are reciprocal.


• Time Saving Tips


• Set specific goals and timelines with benchmarks/dates.
• Have agenda items before each meeting - clear to both in advance.
• Use email for news of events; grant opportunities; sending articles; encouragement.
• Try attending events together - workshops, lectures, conferences as a face-to-face meeting.


• Sample Structure of Meeting
  
  
  • First 5-10 Minutes
  • Engage in personal/professional "check-in" (i.e., how are things going for you, how is your family?).
  
  
  • Next 30-60 Minutes
  • Discuss current and long term goals and priorities.
  • Summarize discussion, clarify tasks, schedule follow-up meeting.