Page 18 - Microhub - Guide for mentoring

PRINCIPLES FOR

SUCCESSFUL MENTORING

There are certain ingredients that when present in a mentoring

relationship can go a long way to guaranteeing its success.

When all these are present it helps to ensure a productive and

nurturing relationship that will benefit both parties. These

include:

Ø Strive for mutual benefits. The relationship should be

defined from the beginning as mutually beneficial. Each

participant has committed to the relationship by choice. Each

should openly share his or her goals for the relationship and

work collaboratively to help achieve them.

Ø Agree on confidentiality. Maintaining an environment of

confidentiality is a critical component in building trust between

the participants. Without a mutually understood ability to speak

freely as the situation warrants, the relationship is unlikely to

reach its full potential.

Ø Commit to honesty. The participants should be willing to

candidly share what they expect to gain from the relationship

and their vision for getting there. They should be prepared to

offer frank feedback as appropriate, even if the feedback is

critical.

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