Being a great mentor requires reliable leadership skills, which can be acquired through a leadership course. You must provide constructive feedback if you want your mentee to grow and improve. This is essential for everyone, including a mentee that undergoes a leadership development program. When you give feedback, avoid being judgmental or degrading, and always be clear about the next step.
What A Good Mentor Should Be
A good mentor understands the nuances of each individual’s growth. As a result, they can help the mentee refine his or her most vital skills and develop a higher level of competence. Mentors should also be open to mistakes, which shows humility and resilience.
Mentors should be approachable, warm, and friendly. They should also be available regularly. An unreliable mentor will be of little value to their mentees. In addition, they should be willing to communicate informally between scheduled meetings. A mentor must be willing to take on the responsibility of helping a new hire feel confident, capable, and inspired in their new career.
Decision Making as a Mentor
Besides offering advice, a good mentor can guide their mentees decision-making. Although it’s essential to let the mentee make final decisions, supporting the mentee’s decision-making is a good idea. They must be open to sharing their personal and professional growth stories with their mentees. This will not only make the mentee feel comfortable with you but also make them feel inspired.
Providing Constructive Criticism
Mentors provide constructive criticism when necessary. Moreover, a mentor should be willing to deliver feedback with respect and tough love. Someone who will not shy away from being honest; if necessary, they are not afraid of hurting their mentee’s feelings. A good mentor should be able to point out mistakes and help their employees make better decisions.
Here is an infographic from Corporate Learning Solutions that can teach you other things on how to become a great mentor.
