Kirston Schuyler
March 11, 2012
What’s the advantage of having a mentor? Mentoring is a two-way relationship, as it provides benefits for both the mentor and mentee. Mentors should view a mentoring relationship as both an opportunity to teach their mentee as well as learn from them. In a mentoring relationship, the mentor gains satisfaction by sharing knowledge, expertise, and influence. On the other hand, the mentee gains many things such as individual recognition, encouragement, and support. Mentors have the ability to explain to you what you need to do and why, in a way that makes sense. They are able to clear your doubts and push you in the right direction. Other benefits include increased self-esteem and confidence when dealing with professionals. The mentee gains confidence to challenge oneself to achieve new goals and explore alternatives. They are able to gain a realistic perspective of the workplace. They are given advice on how to balance work and other responsibilities and set priorities. They are given knowledge of workplace “do’s and don’ts”. The mentee is also able to increase their experience in networking. With a mentor, the mentee is offered a better chance of success because the main purpose of the mentor is not to please your ego, but to bring out the best in you. They give you the encouragement to keep going forward.

Who makes a good mentor? Above all, the mentor should enjoy helping and watching others achieve their goals. Mentees need a mentor who is knowledgeable and maintains a balance between praise, criticism, and advice. A successful mentor should be committed to the mentoring relationship. They should be respectful of individuals and alternate lifestyles. They should be good listeners and take time to understand what is going on with their mentees before they offer advice and information. The mentor should be self- aware; they should know what they can and cannot offer, and they note how their advice is being received by those they mentor. They should be stable as well as flexible; willing to adjust to the mentee’s needs. Mentors should be non- judgemental and sensitive to another person’s struggles. They should be good role models and demonstrate effective practices. The mentor should be transparent; meaning that they make their thinking explicit so the mentee understands why the mentor does what they do. The mentor should be a positive guide, recognizing and acknowledging the progress the mentee makes. They also provide constructive criticism and helpful advice. They strike the right balance between guidance, constructive criticism, and praise. A good mentor is a facilitator and provides resources that help the mentee connect to others who share their interests and can help them. A good mentor is a person of integrity; they are honest in what they say and do and work for the good of those they mentor and do not take advantage of the mentoring situation. Good mentors are accessible and are available to the faculty member being mentored. A good mentor exhibits the characteristics of honesty, patience, and trustworthiness. In conclusion, a good mentor can help the mentee in various ways. They can help the mentee meet new people, aid in career decisions, increase technical knowledge, develop career potential, develop as a person, and learn career-related politics.