Important issues
Communication is Key to the Mentor Relationship
"Finding A Coach"
Successful coaching is not limited to sports. Many organizations have joined a recent trend to match employees with mentors-volunteers who will help them meet career objectives, providing guidance as well as unique and useful information.
Selecting the right person can be the most difficult part of mentoring. AWC-DC's mentoring program is structured so that the initial work of finding a possible match is done for you; after applications are screened by AWC-DC volunteers, potential mentors and mentees meet in an informational interview to determine if their needs and abilities are compatible. To enroll in the Mentoring Program using the Mentor enrollment form.
When choosing a mentor, look for someone who has experience or insight you don't have in a particular subject. Also consider the following guidelines:
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Your Credibility
- Your coach has to believe in you. Establish this credibility by demonstrating your honesty, support and commitment.
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The Coach's Credibility
- Your coach should be trusted by you. Her feedback, whether positive or negative, should be impartial.
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A Teacher
- Your coach should enjoy seeing others grow and develop, and she should be secure enough to be challenged. She should be patient, allowing others to discover questions and answers for themselves—allowing them to learn.
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Your Feelings
- Trust your instincts. If you are uneasy about a potential mentor, keep looking. The goal of the informational interview is to establish a connection; if either of you feel that a better match could be found elsewhere, no one will be upset or offended.
