Mentoring: How to Be an Effective Mentor

In having worked with a number of people who have either been Mentors or Mentees, I've noticed that there is almost always interest in improving the quality of the relationship. That's one of the things that we address in the dozens of video interviews that we've done over that years ... in asking how these individuals feel that the quality of the relationship could be improved.

Side Note: While many of our video interviews would be helpful, here is one that features a good friend of mine, who recently retired after many years of effectively working with both Mentors and Mentees in a government organization ... Please click on his name to view the video of my friend, GLYNN WILLIAMS.

For those who are acting in the role of the Mentor, here is a portion of a longer article that can be found on the Website for the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) -  the provincial gateway to help Albertans plan and achieve educational and career success! It provides information for career planning, post-secondary education and training, educational funding, job search, labour market trends, and workplace issues

Over the years, I've had opportunity to refer many people to this site for career related information. It's a great resource that is worthy of further exploration.

Mentoring: How to Be an Effective Mentor

At some point in your career, you may be asked to become a mentor. If you’ve benefited from a good relationship with a mentor, you know that mentoring can make a positive difference in a person’s career.

You could be approached either by someone seeking a mentor (known as a mentee or protege) or through your organization’s mentoring program.

As a result, you might be asking yourself if you have what it takes to be an effective mentor.

What is mentoring?

Mentors are experienced, trusted advisors or counsellors who have successful careers and proven track records. As a mentor, you make a commitment to support and encourage your mentees as they pursue their career goals. Mentors are not usually paid for their services.

We also encourage you to read the entire ALIS article which can be found at:

http://alis.alberta.ca/ep/eps/tips/tips.html?EK=12433