When starting a mentorship relationship, responsibilities are not always clear. This checklist will show you what mentors and mentees should be focusing on as this relationship begins. Remember, each individual plays a different role, so use this list as a starting point for the initial conversations.
| Mentor | Mentee |
|---|---|
| MANAGE EXPECTATIONS: Ensure you organize face-to-face meetings as it helps build a better connection with the mentee. Be clear about any limitations that may interfere in this relationship. | MANAGE EXPECTATIONS: Share your goals for this relationship with your mentor. You need to also ask your mentor what they want to get out of this mentorship opportunity. Confirm structure and schedule for meetings. For instance, how often, where, and if you will communicate between meetings. Respect each other’s time. |
| PURPOSE: There is a difference between mentorship and leadership. For mentorship, the purpose is to guide individuals through their career and/or personal development. Take the time to build rapport and have a genuine interest in the mentees career. | PURPOSE: Once the goals are confirmed, specify what you are looking to receive out of your career and/or personal life. Make sure you are clear and concise. Keep them up-to-date about your progress. Be motivated throughout this process because this will help with your development, your mentor has expertise and knowledge that is relevant to you. |
| SKILLSET: Converse about complementary skillset – for instance technical and/or management, highlight strengths, etc. Provide valuable feedback. Sharing is a big part of the mentorship relationship. | ACTIVELY LISTEN: Come prepared to your meetings, with an agenda, plan for the conversation and questions. Take the time to truly listen to the feedback and suggestions. When you are offered feedback, accept it and take that information to make improvements. You should be willing to make changes; a growth mindset needs to be adopted. |
| CAREER SUGGESTIONS: Work through career or personal challenges as well as goals. Suggest resources and tools to help with the above. Then celebrate career and/or personal wins. Be an example to the mentee, share your career and personal wisdom. | OBSERVE: Find a mentor whose career path inspires and motivates you. There may be opportunities to job shadow – to watch how things are done on the job and observe the various role responsibilities. |
| TECHNIQUES: Use coaching techniques – help the mentee reflect and come up with solutions on their own. You are there to guide them, not to solve the dilemma. The mentee still has to make their own decisions. | GIVE BACK: This is not a one-way relationship. It is an opportunity for you to help your mentor. You can offer your expertise and support in return. |