Today, I am sharing some mentoring tips, as I am fortunate to be mentoring a couple of University of Alberta students soon in relation to the running of a non-profit organization. As Secretary of my local writing group, the Writers Foundation of Strathcona County, my co-Director and I will share the workings and technicalities of running a non-profit. As mentors we will share the organizational goals, culture, professional roles, bylaws and policies and procedures with these students in order for them to understand how the organization is run.
Mentoring benefits both parties.
- For the mentee, the pros are: skill development, informational growth, study opportunities, increased confidence, networking opportunities.
- For the mentor, the upsides are: legacy building, leadership development, fresh perspectives, seeking new views and the satisfaction of giving back.
Here’s a rundown of what a mentor can help with:
| Guidance and support | Mentors offer advice based on their experience. They’ll have worked in the organization for several years, so will be able to give insights and practical advice. |
| Goal setting | Mentors help the mentee figure out where they want their studies to go and set goals to help them get there. |
| Feedback | A mentor will offer feedback on set tasks. |
| Networking and connections | Mentors connect mentees with other people in the specific field and make valuable introductions which help expand their network. |
| Emotional support and advice | Mentors offer advice on work/study/life balance and other important decisions. |
Tips on Mentoring
Be open and receptive.
Set clear goals.
Take initiative.
Be consistent.
Stay committed.
Lay down the groundwork.
Have you ever mentored anyone? How was your experience?
0 Comments