What level of involvement does ATDChi have in my mentor relationship?
What should I consider when selecting a mentor?
How much time should I plan to spend with my mentor/protégé?
What are some tips for mentors and protégés which will contribute to a successful mentoring relationship?
Can I have a successful mentor relationship with someone not in my same location?
What level of involvement does ATDChi have in my mentor relationship?
None. Each individual is responsible for connecting with a mentor and building and maintaining the mentor relationship as agreed upon by the mentor and protégé. ATDChi will host mentoring events to assist protégés in connecting with various professionals.
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What should I consider when selecting a mentor?
Below are some things to keep in mind as you evaluate possible mentors for you:
- Look for a person who displays the type of leadership skills to which you aspire
- Do not let geographical boundaries limit your choice; distance mentoring can be just as effective
- Look outside your comfort zone and expand your network
- Have more than one choice in mind so you have a backup if your first choice is unavailable
- Conduct an exploratory interview first to help you make an informed choice
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How much time should I plan to spend with my mentor/protégé?
The time commitment should be discussed and agreed upon by both parties. To build an effective relationship it is recommended that you spend 20 minutes a week for a minimum of 13 weeks with your partner.
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Tips for a successful Mentor-Protege relationship
Review the mentor and protégé toolkits for additional resources such as assessments, sample agendas, and other articles.
- Establish boundaries
- Don’t stereotype, generalize or assume that your mentor or protégé will not understand your perspective
- Be candid regarding issues of difference
- Maintain professional behavior
- Articulate any fears about working with a person representing a significantly different perspective
- Meet regularly but be flexible
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Long-Distance Mentoring Relationships
Yes, distance mentoring can be both fun and productive. Below are a few ways to make distance mentoring more effective.
- Plan ahead: Schedule mentoring meetings in advance. Avoid cancelling a meeting unless there is an emergency, and reschedule immediately.
- Listen actively and avoid interruptions. Since most of your mentoring meetings will be on the phone, active listening is especially important. To avoid misinterpreting each other, frequently check to ensure you’re in agreement.
- Use technology for better communication. Video chat solutions like Skype and Google Hangouts allow you to develop a more personal connection.
- Be spontaneous. Call or email each other to check in and share news. Share articles, resources, and ideas relevant to the relationship and work plan.
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