Hi Evienet,
I've had some experience with mentoring and feel that with some structure and good matching, it can be very beneficial.
Anyone who is being mentored must have the right attitude, and be willing to improve their current skills, learn new ones, and of course, work on their weaknesses. They should also approach their mentor proactively and suggest projects, activities, and training courses etc without the mentor having to do all the work. Everything they do needs to have mutual benefit to them and the employer.
The mentor must be someone with plenty of experience on the job, and have a genuine desire to help others so they not only improve, but also add value to the employer. Empathy, patience, and understanding are also essential qualities, along with being able to find creative solutions for problems.
Both mentor and participant should be able to apply strategic thinking. For example, if the person being mentored would like to undertake a task/project etc, they should be able to explain to their mentor how the activity is likely to benefit the department or organisation, along with any possible risks. The mentor should make sure they teach their employee to apply this approach to all aspects of their work and decision making.
At the beginning of the mentoring process, everything should be documented, and agreed on. Reviews should take place at regular intervals as things can change quickly, depending on how the person in question is going.
If you'd like further assistance just drop me a line.
Cheers
Michaela
