Professionals:
If a mentee reaches out to me, it feels more worthwhile to invest in them
Everyone:
Building a relationship between mentor/mentee should feel organic
Informal settings are better to help build the initial relationship
MEETING A MENTOR/MENTEE
Students:
Helpful to have a mentor with a similar identity/background (race, gender, sexuality, etc.)
Structured plan for professional goals is helpful
Having a mentor within your workplace and outside your workplace is helpful
Mentor/mentees should have aligned personalities and goals
It should be natural, not a transactional relationship
Professionals:
The relationship should be long term
A mentorship is more meaningful when it’s not transactional. Ethically, I wouldn’t want to be paid as a mentor
Everyone:
Meeting consistently is important
Finding a committed mentor/mentee who cares is important
WHAT DOES A VALUABLE MENTORSHIP LOOK LIKE?
Students:
Mentorship is important for my career growth
Want to know more about the profession/field
Having a mentor within your workplace and outside your workplace is helpful
It’s nice to get feedback when things come up
Professionals:
Mentorship validates my knowledge. It feels good to see someone grow and progress in their career
Mentorship improves the workplace culture and everyone’s professional development.
WHY DO YOU WANT A MENTOR/MENTEE?
Students:
Nervous/insecure about going into the professional world
There are barriers in the professional workplace as a minority
Professionals:
Not sure I know enough to be a good mentor
Everyone:
Hesitant to reach out/initiate - not sure if people are busy and don’t want to come off presumptuous
Work/life balance - it’s tough to prioritize making time for mentorship
WHAT ARE SOME BARRIERS MENTORSHIP