In continuing our series on Mentoring, we look at the issue today from the perspective of the Mentee. So when they have been asked directly what they want or expect from a mentor, some of the typical responses we have received include the following:

In the arena of personal feedback and interaction, they say they would like to have

• Encouragement
• Support
• Honesty
• Candid information and advice
• An honest appraisal of their capabilities

In relation to their work, and the kind of matters they expect to discuss with their mentors, they say they look to them for:

• “Big picture” perspectives
• Guidance on actions to take
• Suggestions on differing ways of seeing or approaching an issue
• Help with “Vision” and seeing paths beyond their current vantage points
• Assistance in making “Good” choices
• The benefit of the mentor’s experiences: What did and did not work
• Non-attribution, honest discussions about tough issues

On the subject of the relationship and how it best operates from their vantage point, they say they expect:

• Confidentiality about their discussions and any negative insights they’ve gained about the mentee
• Information on opportunities available
• An effort to really understand the Mentee’s abilities and concerns
• Help in defining & reaching goals
• Availability, without interruptions
• Regular, agreed-to and kept appointments

Many mentees also expected help in the area of building a better network system of contacts, both within their own organisations and external parties. So they expressed a wish for help in:

• Developing a “Network” with introduction to “key players”
• Idea stimulation, insight to career paths
• Assistance in formulating a cohesive plan for making and developing contacts

Now this may appear to be highly ego-centric and self centred; and from one perspective that is so. But a mentoring relationship is the closest thing in a business and organisation to being an individually tailored personally advantageous relationship. And the Mentor is adopting a Servant-Leader role to help bring the Mentee greater knowledge, capability and confidence. And the reward for the Mentor? Immeasurable satisfaction, generosity of spirit and the knowledge that one has done something good!

By Shirley Huntington©

Senior Psychometric Specialist