While mentees benefit significantly from their mentor’s advice and experience, there is also plenty to gain for the mentor.
According to Monash University research, becoming a mentor will help you develop better listening skills, build self-esteem through the recognition of your professional abilities, develop your management and leadership skills, give you a sense of satisfaction in assisting someone junior to you, increase your job satisfaction, as well as enhance your interpersonal skills.
The best way to become a mentor, according to the founder of Network Central Kim McGuinness, is to join a structured mentoring program.
“These programs come with significant training in how to be a mentor and offer support when you have questions and concerns,” she says.
As an alternative to entering a program, McGuinness also suggests mentoring someone younger, who you know well, to get some experience and a better understanding of the mentoring process.
According to Lynette Palmen AM, the founder of Women’s Network Australia, simply making people aware of your desire to become a mentor at networking events will lead to referrals and the establishment of mentoring relationships down the track.
“For example, if you come across someone who has just started a business or finished study in the same industry as you, approach them [and offer your advice],” says Palmen. “Put yourself forward, promote it in your organisation.”
Whichever way you choose to become a mentor, McGuinness points out that each mentoring relationship is different and that there are no hard and fast rules.
“A mentor is not a coach,” she says. “You are not there to teach, you are there to listen and guide and offer advice based on your experience.”
Seeking feedback throughout the relationship is also important.
“Keeping aligned to the mentee’s long-term goals is critical,” says McGuinness.
“Ask for feedback on where the mentee needs help, clarification and support. The more you mentor the more you will become the master at it.”