A mentor guides you, supports you and gives you the tools you need to succeed in your career. Frequently, they are people who have gone the same path you are currently taking, so they are there to advise you on what they have done and what perfectly worked for them.
Anyone can be your mentor, former or current boss, former schoolmate, friend, family member, co-worker, or even someone you knew at an event during networking. Mentors can be essential at any stage of your life, whether you’re still studying, searching for a job, already having a job but want to move up, or seeking a new career. A mentor should be consistent in your life, and you should not just admire them from far. They should have been in your life for a while.
The Following Are Qualities of A Good Mentor
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Good listeners
A good mentor has to possess good listening skills. They can pay attention and know where you are coming from before giving their solutions on where to go. They must ask questions before telling you what to do and should be curious about your next step.
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They value diversity and perspectives, treating people with respect
Respecting employees as human beings builds a great relationship in working. They should criticize constructively.
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Knowledgeable
Mentors should provide you with insights and experiences that you don’t have or only know little about. A good mentor shows the employee how the company works. They should help you get up from where you are stuck or help you make a decision. A good mentor is knowledgeable because they help you find connections and networks you don’t have, and they help you learn the guidelines and rules of the company.
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Non-judgmental
When delivering criticism or feedback, a good mentor avoids using a non-judgmental tone with their employees, which helps them feel secure and correct mistakes without fear.
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Honest
You need someone who will give you tough love when you need it. A good mentor knows how he can deliver feedback in a kind and direct way without fearing or shying off because of the possibility of hurting you. With such a kind of person on your side, you will surely make clear and better decisions.
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Passionate about their work
A good mentor should be proud of their work. Seeing how their work has positively impacted others should make them very proud. They know the importance of telling their mentee everything they know. A good mentor feels confident and proud of impacting other people’s lives.
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Give constructive feedback
A good mentor takes a constructive and conversational tone that will help the employee or mentee understand the intended criticism and highlight areas of improvement.
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Take personal interest or focus on the person being mentored
A good mentor must go beyond daily activities and interactions and learn about the employer and who they are. It helps the mentor know how the mentee thinks, their career goals, and what they are passionate about, which helps them provide excellent and meaningful lessons and be a more effective teacher.
