The Qualities of an Effective Mentor

Effective mentors are individuals with as many of the following personal qualities as possible:

• Familiarity with the company’s training procedures and objectives;
• Sufficient work experience with the company;
• Experience performing or overseeing the job functions to be carried out by the new/young worker;
• Willingness to take the time to get to know the mentee and his/her learning style and limitations;
• Someone who’s likely to listen to and observe new/young workers and intervene only when necessary for their protection;
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
• Patience;
• The willingness and ability to provide specific feedback and direction;
• The diligence to ensure mentees actually understand and practice what they’re taught;
• The willingness to seek help or advice from another quarter where the mentor doesn’t have the answer to the mentee’s question;
• A positive attitude and pride in his/her own work and the company;
• The respect of his peers and supervisors;
• Trustworthiness and reliability; and
• Sincere eagerness to embrace the role of mentor and help the mentee.