Ask anyone, and they will say that mentorship is a particularly tricky skill to master. Not only does it involve having someone else rely on you for guidance and support, but any mistake the mentee ends up making is a direct consequence on the mentor as well. Whether professionally or academically, if you're a new mentor struggling to get your feet off the ground, here are five things to keep in mind to step up your mentorship game.

Commit to the role

Before you jump into mentoring, remind yourself that this is a time-consuming role, and more often than not, you will have to take hours out of your busy day to teach and guide your mentee. As such, ensure you have the time and willingness to dedicate to this craft. A successful mentor must be consistently available and engaged to build a trusting relationship with their mentee. As per a Forbes article on the benefits of mentorship, feeling supported by mentors helps employees feel more invested and fulfilled in their commitment to the company.

Develop a structured action plan

Identify specific goals and objectives for the mentorship. This helps both parties stay focused and measure progress effectively. Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals can provide clear direction and purpose. Also, establish regular check-ins to review progress towards these goals. Use these sessions to discuss what's working, what isn't, and how the approach might need to change. 

Foster open communication

Maintain a dialogue that is open, honest, and supportive. Encourage your mentee to share their thoughts and concerns without fear of judgement. Pay attention, show empathy, and provide thoughtful responses. This demonstrates that you value your mentee's input and are invested in their growth. According to the Udemy course 'A Practical Guide to Mentorship', a key step towards being a great mentor is to foster a caring mindset that is present, curious, and patient with the needs of the mentee.

Provide opportunities for growth

Help your mentee find opportunities to develop new skills and gain experiences that will advance their career. This might include recommending them for projects, encouraging them to attend workshops, or connecting them with key individuals in your network. Keep in mind that each mentee is unique, with different strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations. Tailor your mentoring approach to meet the individual needs of your mentee, providing customised support and guidance.

Lead by example

Demonstrate the behaviours and attitudes you wish to instil in your mentee. Your actions often speak louder than words and can greatly influence their professional development. As such, always show integrity, work ethic, and a positive attitude in your own work. Stay updated on new mentoring techniques and strategies, and be willing to refine your approach based on new insights.