Last week I wrote about what I feel is the #1 thing it takes to be a good mentor. Basically, if you have learned anything during your life and career, then you have insights to share with others!
But what are some key traits or qualities of great mentors? Here are 3 that immediately come to mind:
Great mentors are…
- Available. Great mentors make themselves available to those they’ve agreed to mentor. Whether by phone, email, text, or regularly scheduled in-person meetings, great mentors graciously make time for their mentees. Mentoring is a commitment, and they faithfully honor that commitment with their time.
- Approachable. Great mentors not only make themselves available, they demonstrate an approachable demeanor and positive attitude. They smile. They are encouraging and supportive, even when offering constructive criticism. They always invite questions, and ask good ones too. They don’t resent interruptions, and overall consider their investment in others as time well spent.
- Authentic. Great mentors are real. They don’t put on a façade of perfectionism and success. They relate stories of failure as well as success. They share the good, the bad, and the ugly. Simply put, they walk the talk and they tell it like it is.
Obviously there are many more key traits of excellent mentors, but in my opinion these 3 cover a lot of bases. If you have a story to share and you are committed to being available, approachable, and authentic, then you are well on your way to being a world-class mentor!
What has your experience been as a mentor or mentee? What qualities would you add to this list?
