Ever wondered if you're cut out to be a mentee? It's not just about finding the right mentor, but also about being the right kind of learner. Let's delve into the qualities that make someone truly mentorable.
Are you a good mentee?
Organizations typically place much greater emphasis on mentors than on mentees
- The key to mentorability is an open and reciprocal partnership between mentor and mentee
- Success is not just having a mentor tell you or show you what to do. It’s a two-way relationship
Accept input, advice and criticism
Be ready to receive their feedback, and then decide whether or not you want to take it
- If you decide not to follow their guidance, express your gratitude and explain your decision in person or via email.
- Your feedback will enable your mentor to learn how they can best coach you
Be open to whatever you can learn from your mentor
Not all relationships are meant to be fruitful, but they can still be immensely valuable
- You may come out of it with new information or a new skill, a new perspective, or perhaps even a new friendship
Understand the value of their time
Show them you appreciate it by arriving on time or early to see them and not cancelling at the last minute unless there’s an emergency
- Give your mentor your full attention – respond quickly if they send you a text or email that requires a reply, and explain why
You’re clear about what you’re looking for from a mentor
The more specifically you can articulate your expectations and objectives, the more likely you are to receive the guidance you’d like.
- Many of us feel like we want to show only our best face to prospective mentors, but you may need to expose your problems and limitations in your ongoing partnership.
