Skills that a mentor needs

As a mentor you need to take a personal interest in the mentee’s welfare and professional development. You need to be keen to share experience and knowledge to support their development. Other skills include:

• Maintaining a neutral position
• Providing honest answers
• Being approachable
• Knows what they are talking about - good at their own job
• Ability to give constructive and positive feedback
• Providing guidance but ensuring the mentee makes any decisions
• Being genuinely concerned about the mentee
• Is willing to debate, challenge and discuss
• Maintaining confidentiality

At the first meeting, clarify the level and nature of the advice, guidance and support that your mentee requires - and that you are able to provide.