Mentor Match Best Practices

The Mentor Match program is mentee-driven.  Mentees are required to set goals to review with their mentors, agree on the amount of time each person can invest, and suggest how they would like to work with their mentors. Driving the relationship may be awkward or uncomfortable at first but doing so will allow the relationship to be focused and impactful. 

Below are some best practices/expectations for participating in the program as a Mentee or a Mentor.  You can also consult the "Getting Started - Mentee Checklist" or the "Getting Started - Mentor Checklist" for additional notes.
 

Mentee Best Practices

Take the initiative.  Find the mentor that fits you best and initiate the first “meet and greet” conversation.  


Establish the relationship and set goals. You know best what you are looking to get from the mentoring relationship.  Come to the first meeting with an idea of what your goals are and how you would like to work towards them.   


Schedule the meetings. Work with your mentor to decide on the frequency of meetings, as well as the best time to meet.  While schedules can be flexible, consider pre-scheduling meetings for the determined mentoring period to ensure there are fewer reschedules during the process.


Have realistic expectations. Do not expect your mentor to know everything or be to help in every situation. Do check in with them if you need help with something outside of their scope, because it’s likely they have someone in their network that can assist.


Be honest.  A mentoring relationship works best when you can have open and honest dialogues with your mentor. Be honest if there are questions or concerns throughout the mentoring process. If things are just not working, let them know.  It might be a case of miscommunication or it may be time to end the formal mentoring relationship.


Express appreciation. Let your mentor know how they have helped you and express your appreciation for those actions. Be aware of what you give back to the mentoring relationship.


Evaluate. Continually evaluate the mentoring relationship and experience. 

Mentor Best Practices

Evaluate your skills and time.  Evaluate whether you are the right person for the role, in terms of both expertise and time. While the mentor program isn’t meant to be a large time commitment, you still will want to ensure your work load will not preclude you from being present with your mentee(s).

Be available. Be as flexible as possible about being available to your mentee(s).


Be honest.  Clearly identify your role and what the mentee(s) expect of you. Let your mentee(s) know if you think the relationship needs to change or end if things aren't working out as expected.  

Help establish goals. Help your mentee pinpoint what they hope to accomplish throughout the mentoring relationship.  Set up realistic timelines to achieve these goals.

Offer feedback. Provide comments that are specific and honest, and that address strengths and positive attributes as well as areas for improvement.