Mentoring is a developing collaboration between two people with different bases of experience where both parties can achieve new learning and personal growth (Poulsen, 2023). Based on the conversations between mentor and mentee, both can be inspired and gain new insights and perspectives that can be built upon to find their own answers and solutions.
In the modern approach to mentoring, the mentor is a confidential learning partner and not a more knowledgeable senior. Therefore, in modern mentoring, the focus is on both mentor and mentee learning something new about themselves and each other (Poulsen, 2023). A mentor-mentee collaboration can be beneficial in several areas: personal development, professional skills, career development, cultural understanding, knowledge sharing, networking, and active listening.
Mentoring is a mutual relationship with a focus on giving and receiving. A mentor-mentee conversation is a dialogue between two equals aiming to discuss various topics and questions (professional as well as personal), where both parties are mentally present and open to dialogue (Hejlsvig, 2017).
It is important to note that a mentorship program has a specific duration, start and end dates, a clear role distribution, and a special focus. A longer programme typically lasts 8-12 months with a minimum of 5 meetings in the course, while a shorter programme lasts approximately 3 months with 3-4 meetings. It is recommended that a meeting – the mentor conversation – lasts 1-1½ hours.
When the mentor and mentee have agreed on goals and framework for the mentorship, it is recommended to draw up and sign an agreement. Please find an example on the AU website about mentoring.
Remember that the mentor is responsible for the process and the methods used in the conversation. The mentee is responsible for taking the initiative for the meetings and deciding which topics should be discussed, and processing the conversation independently after the meetings and preparing between meetings.
A mentor is someone who has a genuine interest in helping others and providing them with the necessary space for personal development. As a mentor, you put yourself in a position that enables you to listen, observe, ask questions, challenge the mentee, and remain curious.
Mentors put themselves in the mentee’s shoes and assist them in the most suitable way possible. They can contribute knowledge from their own context or career path but should not be seen as an oracle who tells the mentee what to do. Both mentor and mentee should be viewed as equals who can learn from one another.
As a mentor, you are responsible for
A mentee is someone who chooses to establish a relationship with a mentor for various reasons. As a mentee, you may lack knowledge or require input on a specific field, or you may feel uncertain and in need of a neutral learning space and guidance from someone outside your inner circle of family, friends, colleagues, etc. A mentee can learn from a mentor's experience and inspiration, both personally and professionally. A mentee is serious about the future and is interested in developing and learning. A mentee is also willing to share learning with the mentor.
As a mentee, you are responsible for
