Now that you’ve started the mentorship, we hope you have taken all the initial steps to build the base for this relationship. That all expectations have been managed, you shared your goals, and you are taking the time to actively listen to advice. You’ve had some time to figure out the details so it’s a good idea to keep enhancing this relationship. We have a few suggestions for your next meeting:
MAKE A PLAN
Think through what you want to talk about, what problems you want to work through. Also, identify and be clear about your next to-dos and how they will help you work towards your goal.
SEND AN AGENDA
24-48 hours prior to the meeting send an agenda to your mentor. For example, 1. Updates on items from last meeting; 2. Current challenges; 3. Steps moving forward. This can be a formal email or an informal text. The agenda will keep you on track with time and help you avoid going off on tangents. You can then ensure all necessary topics are covered in the designated time.
UPDATE YOUR MENTOR
Make sure to keep your mentor in the loop about any career or personal achievements. They want to know how you are moving forward on the topics you have discussed. Remember, they are part of your success.
NEXT STEPS
Commit to next steps. Prior to leaving the meeting, make it clear what you will both be doing over the next few weeks. As well, the next meeting should be set at this time when you are both on the same page.
FOLLOW-UP EMAIL
After your meeting, send a follow-up email to summarize everything that was discussed and all the to-dos you both committed to. It can include deadlines if that was part of the conversation. Then clearly state the date, time and location for your next meeting.
We hope you are enjoying this new mentorship relationship and learning a lot along the way. Your mentor is a great source of knowledge, make sure to use this opportunity to move your career and/or personal goals forward. You now have a true accountability partner. Enjoy and keep us updated if there is anything else you would like to learn about mentoring. Email your suggestions to coned@csmls.org.