The Pareto Principle

What can an 18th century economist teach us about mentoring? Just this: one simple principle that may be the single most important factor in a successful mentoring relationship!

Vilfredo Pareto (1848 -1923) described a phenomenon now known as the 80:20 rule. Pareto's principle generalises to a surprising number of areas. 80% of revenue comes from 20% of customers, 80% of problems come from 20% causes, 80% of results come from 20% of activities. In mentoring the 80:20 rule can be applied in at least two ways:

1. Listening

Good mentors spend 80% of their time listening and only 20% speaking. What this also means is that mentorees must be speaking 80% of the time! Sharing their goals, interests and concerns. 

2. Content and Process

• Content is what is spoken about. The subject, topic, goals discussed.
• Process means how a topic is discussed. The tools, techniques, models applied to address an issue.

This is an extract from Mentoring Tips 1 # 13. If you would like the full text (one-page) email info@mentoring-works.com with "Send Tip 13" in the subject line. 

Consider supporting your mentoring program with regular Mentoring Tips from the international mentoring specialist. Receiving Mentoring Tips on a regular basis:

• Provides mentors with ongoing information, tools and motivation;
• Keeps participants engaged in the process; and
• Informs managers mentoring techniques and benefits

One-page informative and easy-to-read tips cover a range of topics to help your mentors be the best they can be. Volumes 1 and 2 of Mentoring Tips 1-12 are available now. For more information visit www.mentoring-works.com.