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Qualities
of an Effective Mentoring Relationship |
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A mentor is useful at all levels from top management to clerical
ranks. He or she imparts a feel for the job, a knowledge of the
skills needed to perform it and information on trends in the
field. The mentor shows the mentee the best way to handle
various situations. One of the earliest studies about the mentoring relationship was reported by Kram (1983). This
study found that mentors serve two primary functions: providing
career-related guidance and psychological support. The success of the relationship depends on the ability of the
mentee to learn. The mentee must be a good listener, observer, and must come to realize that being on the receiving
end of the mentor's advice is not a sign of ignorance but a gateway to essential knowledge and eventual success.
Mentees are encouraged to "learn by doing" under close supervision.
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Qualities
of an Effective Mentor |
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- Inventiveness in developing learning opportunities
- Personal commitment to developing and maintaining the
mentoring relationship
- Professional and personal stability
- Knowledge about your field and connection to resources
- Flexibility and openness
- Sensitivity to others' experiences and struggles
- Patience and persistence
- Respect toward the mentee and individual differences
(ability to accept different points of view with limited judgment)
- Willingness to listen
- Self-knowledge, self-reflection, and commitment to ongoing
self-development
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to give and receive constructive feedback
- Honesty and genuineness
- Sense of humor
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References:
Kram, K. E.
(1985). Mentoring at work: Developmental
relationships in organizational life. Glenview,
IL: Scott, Foresman and Company. |
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