Suggestions For Mentors
DO’S
Take initiative in the relationship. Invite protégé to meet, suggest topics to discuss, ask if you can offer advice. Respect protégé’s time as much as your own.
Be explicit about your needs and limits (e.g. time constraints, style of interacting…).
Tell protégé that you don’t expect her/him to follow all of your suggestions.
Expect protégé to move toward her/his (not your) goals.
Express appreciation to protégé for any help given you, if applicable.
Recognize and work through any conflict in caring ways. Invite discussion of differences with protégé.
Keep relationship professional. Consider carefully whether you wish to encourage a close relationship.
Make only positive or neutral comments about your protégé to others. If you disagree with the protégé’s behaviour/values, share your perceptions with him/her.
Keep door open for protégé to keep you as a contact for the future.
DON’TS
Wait, initially, for protégé to suggest activities.Assume that your schedule has top priority.
Automatically give advice or instruction.
Assume your advice will be followed.
Move too quickly into friendship, if at all.
Talk negatively about your protégé behind his/her back.
End relationship on bad terms.