WHAT MAKES A GOOD MENTOR

Before becoming a mentor, here are a few things to understand about the role of mentoring. Most of us have had a teacher, supervisor or coach who has been a mentor to us and made a positive difference in our lives. Those people wore many hats, acting as delegators, role models, cheerleaders, policy enforcers, advocates, and friends. Mentors assume these different roles during the course of a relationship.

 

 

GET STARTED

You have made a wonderful and very important decision in choosing to become a mentor. If you’ve reached this conclusion, you’ve done enough research to have an idea how different each mentoring situation can be. ​ Before you start to look at the programs that are available, think about and identify your own interests and needs. ​ Finding a mentoring program you’re excited about and comfortable with can require some time and thought, but the good news is that there’s something for everyone. The following steps will help walk you through the process of choosing a mentoring program that is right for you. ​

 

To help you decide which type of mentoring program you will be best suited for , ask yourself the following questions Do You Have :

• A sincere desire to be involved in influencing a child’s life

• Respect for young people

• Active listening skills

• Empathy

• The ability to see solutions and opportunities

• Flexibility

• What time commitment can I make

• What age group would I like to work with

• Would I like to work with one child or with a group of children

• Would I like to team with other adults to mentor a child or a large group

• What types of activities interest me

• Do I want to help a youth learn a specific skill, pursue an interest, help with homework or just be a caring adult friend

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BENEFITS

Mentoring relationships are a shared opportunity for learning and growth. Many mentors say that the rewards they gain are as substantial as those for their mentees, and that mentoring has enabled them to:

• Have fun and Enjoy the mentees

• Achieve personal growth and learn more about themselves

• Above all, a good mentor is willing to take the time to get to know their mentee, to learn new things that are important to the young person, and even to be changed by their relationship.

• Improve their self-esteem and feel they are making a difference

• Gain a better understanding of other cultures and develop a greater appreciation for diversity

• Feel more productive and have a better attitude at work

• Enhance their relationships with their own children