Support Is Essential For Mentoring

Recent research suggests that the success rate of mentoring triples when both mentor and mentoree are trained at the outset. However, the importance of supporting mentoring over the life of the program is also vital. You can't just put people together and say: go forth and ment. Some will prosper, some will stumble and some will fail, if you don't plan and provide support".

Initially participants need to know the goals of mentoring and what is expected of them. A framework for the mentoring relationship and guidelines that show how to get the most out of mentoring conversations is vital.

Training is best conducted face-to-face, providing the opportunity for participants to meet and build rapport in a supportive environment that promotes networking with their peers. Mentors and mentorees alike appreciate the support of fellow travellers. Group activities break the ice and make it easy to get started. Resource materials, such as workbooks, provided during the training become useful references over the life of the relationship. Participants may be introduced to the concept of journaling to increase the value of mentoring.

Once the mentoring relationship is initiated, it can fizzle out if there is no follow up. A co-ordinated plan is vital. Personal follow-up by a person who is the central point of communication, checking in with the mentoring pairs to ensure that they have met again and established goals and agreements for the mentoring increases the likelihood of success.

Follow-up materials such as newsletters, tips and tools can be critical in keeping participants engaged and can be used to involve supervisors and managers so they feel kept in the loop.

A holistic approach to the mentoring process support mentors and mentorees and provides resources that promote long-term engagement.