Beginning a mentoring meeting can be a daunting experience, but it doesn't have to be. To guarantee that the conversation is productive and that you create a strong relationship, it's essential to give your mentor an idea of what you would like to focus on. You can even send an informal agenda for your first discussion ahead of time so that your mentor knows what you have in mind. Ask for the contact information of your mentor and, if suitable, the contact information of your assistant.
One of the simplest ways to build a good relationship is for the mentor and mentee to exchange professional stories. The agenda doesn't need to be long or complex; just write down the topics you want to discuss and make sure your mentor or mentee has a copy before the meeting starts. Don't anticipate the mentor to come to a meeting without any context and be able to offer you value. You've heard about the incredible advantages that come from mentoring: professional development, increased confidence, and even the potential for career advancement. The good news on the day of the meeting is that all that's left to do is relax, meet your mentor or mentee, and discuss the expectations of others.
As soon as you've paired up mentors and mentors, get in touch with them and provide them with everything they need to get started. Most of the time, both parties tend to trust each other to drive progress, when in reality, mentoring should be a partnership in which both make the same effort. Mentoring helps guide people through the unknown as they embark on a new working relationship with someone and trying to find a career path. This may seem counterintuitive, but it works; when you set the bar low, you're much more likely to achieve your goals and meet your mentor or mentee. If you're in a difficult situation or have obstacles, your regular meeting is a good time to ask your mentor for advice. The first mentoring session should consist of giving the mentor and mentee an opportunity to get acquainted and establish a comfortable relationship.
Many of your members are likely to take part in a mentoring program for the first time, so it's up to you to provide them with guidance and support. That's why, in this post, I'll review what you'll need to do from both perspectives in order to make the most out of your first mentor meeting.
