Some do’s and don’ts for mentors

Listen, clarify, understand
Establish expectations
Establish rapport through an authentic interest in your mentee
Once you have established rapport, begin to set clear goals, and track progress (modifying as appropriate)
Help mentee identify problems and solutions
Provide guidance based on past experiences
Be a role model in punctuality, sticking to deadlines, showing commitment
Create a positive relationship and climate of open communication and trust
Be enthusiastic and supportive
Share stories including mistakes
Solicit feedback from your mentee
Come prepared for each interaction
Provide positive reinforcement
Reach out to NMM and our International Coach Federation support

Do your mentee’s work and take responsibility for what your mentee should be doing
Intervene too quickly with advice
Create a dependency
Make this about you – this is about your mentee
Expect your mentee to stroke your ego
Break trust
Get involved in your mentee’s personal problems – you are not a psychologist
Become involved personally with your mentee!
Become involved professionally if, e.g., your mentee wants to start or has a business!
Hang on when it is time to move on