Six Tactics Effective Mentors Use
Over my 4 years working at Innovate Charlotte Venture Mentoring program, I’ve observed hundreds of mentoring sessions, and talked to dozens of mentors and founders to figure out what made their relationships successful. Through that experience, I was able to uncover 6 tactics that were used by most effective mentors.
Willing to spend time. Effective mentors know that it takes time to build a relationship. They find time to show up for face-to-face group meeting online or in person. They take time to prepare for each meeting. Additionally, they find time for informal 1x1 meetings.
Having a plan. Effective mentors are intentional. They have a plan. They help mentees articulate goals for their business, as well as the goal for the mentoring relationship. They plan around the mentee's goals and are not centered around what they want to teach.
Getting a buy-in on homework. Effective mentors help mentees focus on just 1 or 2 key action items rather than a shopping list of things to do. Such focused actionable items ensure that the mentee can consistently make progress towards their goal without feeling overwhelmed.
Choosing asking over telling. Effective mentors do less telling, learn to do more asking, and do a good job of listening and acknowledging.
Staying Curious, Not Invested. Effective mentors realize and accept the fact that responsibility for learning, and progress rests with the mentee, and not with them.
Showing praise constantly. Effective mentors are very encouraging. They praise behaviors and choices, not natural talent.
What I’ve also learned over 4 years that mentorship works better when it is a team sport. When there is a community of mentors that can work together, learn to gather, and share insights with each other. Such an approach leads to growth for everyone involved.
