A successful mentor/mentee relationship can provide advice, guidance, access to good contacts and ultimate objectivity in a challenging situation.
Integrity is paramount to the relationship and the most effective ones have utmost trust. It takes time to find the right fit; perseverance and the confidence to approach individuals is paramount, with networks proving fundamental to finding the right mentor or mentee.
Mentoring relationships provide:
Friendship
Informal and supportive relationships with chemistry, providing mutual benefits for both sides.
Experience Mentors in business are neither consultants nor executives. They do not carry the burden of responsibility, nor are they paid to do a specific task or job. Their role is to share their experience.
Networks
Fundamental to finding a mentor or mentee is starting with your own personal network.
Leadership
A mentor guides the leader within a business, rather than the business itself.
Perspective
A truly effective mentor is able to take a step back and advise on the overall situation.
Guidance
Mentors don’t necessarily provide the answers; they guide mentees to find their own answers.
Problem solving
The relationship deals with both personal and business dilemmas.
Structure Relationships can have a variety of structures, from a formalised mentoring process within a company to a more informal network of support.
