Insights from Ms. Nelly Kioski, Chairman, Women Executives APAC
Tip #1 - Commitment
Before starting the mentorship journey, be sure to set out clear expectations, objectives, duration and the format of meetings. This will help minimize disappointments during the journey.
Tip #2 - Mutual learning
In general, the mentor usually possesses more life and work experience but often the mentee has also lot to offer as well. Maintain a mindset that this mentorship is also a great mutual learning opportunity.
Tip #3 - Mutual respect
Despite the common goal is to provide mutual learning for the mentor and mentee, their exchanges and sharing regarding experience, perspectives and objectives may differ. Be mindful to respect each other's differences.
Tip #4 - Empowerment
Usually the mentee will bring up personal or work challenges to the mentor for advice. At times, turn this around and empower your mentee. Ask the mentee to provide the mentor with something new to learn. Empowerment is a powerful tool for the mentee to excel.
Tip #5 - Active participation
Besides the conventional way of mentoring, which is often comprised of having a conversation, consider some activities that both the mentor and mentee can participate together to turn that advice into action.
Tip #6 - Mutual engagement
In most cases, mentees are responsible for being proactive to reach out and ask for advice from their mentors. Don't forget mentors to reach out from time to time as well when you have not heard from your mentees.
Tip #7 - Have fun
Though in most cases, the mentorship relationship is somewhat serious and formal, do not forget that mutual parties can benefit from having fun when giving or receiving advice. Create dialogue and activities that can also bring in a fun element.
Tip #8 - Lifetime opportunity
How did you come across this mentorship opportunity? Was it part of a school, community, business association or work's CSR initiative or program? If so, this means that this mentorship opportunity will have an end date. However, if this relationship has been mutually beneficial, this can last a lifetime. There is no limit so it is up to the mentor and mentee.