The Mentor - Mentorship by BC Talents

Mentor's role

Before becoming a mentor, here are a few things to understand about the role of mentoring. As a mentor, your primary role is to provide guidance and support to your mentee based on his or her unique developmental needs. At different points in the relationship, you will take on some or all of the following roles:

1) Coach/Advisor

Give advice and guidance, share ideas, and provide feedbackShare information on "unwritten rules for success" within environment/organization

2) Source of Encouragement/Support

Act as sounding board for ideas/concerns about career choices; provide insights into possible opportunities

3) Resource Person

Identify resources to help mentee enhance personal development and career growthExpand the mentee's network of contacts

4) Champion

Serve as advocate for mentee whenever opportunity presents itselfSeek opportunities for increased visibility for mentee

5) Devil's Advocate

When appropriate, play devil's advocate to help mentee think through important decisions and strategies

The benefits to be a Mentor

Mentoring relationships are a shared opportunity for learning and growth. Many mentors say that the rewards they gain are as substantial as those for their mentees, and that mentoring has enabled them to:

Have fun,
Achieve personal growth and learn more about yourself,
Improve your self-esteem and feel your are making a difference,
Gain a better understanding of other cultures and develop a greater appreciation for diversity,
Feel more productive and have a better attitude,
Enhance your relationships
Helps mentee learn to take better control of his or her career