Being in a leadership role often provides the opportunity to mentor others in their professional careers. This is an honor and important responsibility. Successful mentoring extends your legacy for years to come.
Before agreeing to be a mentor be sure you have the time to commit. There is an investment on each end. If you can’t fill the need the mentee needs in a certain area, be honest and suggest someone better suited. Work with you mentee diligently to understand their knowledge, skills and experience. Most of all do not micromanage or take over for them.
The most successful mentors will ask questions. Find out what the mentee needs help with, get them to open up about heir thoughts and concerns. Then listen to them. As suggested by Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPad, “Have two ears and one mouth”. Listen twice as much as you speak. Also use the relationship to learn new things and strengthen your leadership skills. Mentees can provide you with new insight from a different perspective.
Should you have any additional questions on this or any other HR topic, please call CyQuest today!