Eight Ways to Be a Recommendation-Worthy Mentee
- Jackie Vermeulen
- May 30, 2016
- 3 min read
“It’s all about who you know.” If you’re tired of hearing it, you’re reading the wrong article. When you’re not quite sure where your career should take you, that important person you should know is a mentor.
The easiest way to have a great mentor is to be a great mentee. Here are some things to keep in mind when working with your mentor:
1. Reach out.
While you can find a mentor through a formalized program, mentees usually reach out to find a mentor. Not that a mentor-mentee relationship is a one-way street...but there is certainly someone who benefits more and should make the effort up-front.
Look throughout your organization. Is there anyone whose work you admire? Ask if they have to meet for you to ask questions. Then actually schedule it.
2. Be ready to share.
Have an updated resume ready to go. Not that your mentor won’t want to hear it out of your mouth, but seeing what you show to the world is a great start for feedback. Try to have a 360 done (that’s when you get opinions about your work from people all around you), which is also a great way for your mentor to see where you are successful and where you need work.
Have solid five- and ten-year plans written down so you’re ready to share and your mentor will be able to help you more efficiently.
3. Be honest.
Your parents were right; it is the best policy. To get the most out of your mentor relationship, be open and honest about who you are, your strengths and weaknesses, what you aspire to do, and where you need help.
4. Keep it confidential.
Preserve the relationship by not sharing any personal stories your mentor shares. Consider it a doctor-patient relationship.
You shouldn’t share the story about how your mentor dealt with a terrible boss who had the bad breath to match; that boss might just be on the end of this whisper-down-the-lane and put your mentor’s reputation in danger. Just like you wouldn’t want your mentor to tell your boss you’re considering changing jobs.
5. Come prepared. On time.
Respect your mentor’s time and show your appreciation by showing up on time and ready to take notes. Prepare questions ahead of time so you can make the most of your opportunity.
6. Schedule the follow-up.
At the end of your meetings, leave with action items and schedule another time to meet to review your work. Send out a meeting request for the time you agreed upon within 24 hours, and double-check the time works a week before you’re supposed to meet.
7. Put the advice to work.
Did he suggest you research a company? Create a new piece for your portfolio? Attend a networking event? Do it. Dooo it.
8. Take opportunities.
If your mentor offers to introduce you to another person or let you shadow them for the day, take it. While following your mentor for the day might feel like you’re burdening her, she offered because she is willing to have you join her.
Having a mentor is a wonderful opportunity and a privilege. Making the most of your time and your mentor’s time will help you get more out of your relationship. Show R.E.S.P.E.C.T. and you will find your mentor will be eager to direct you on your road to success.
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Jackie Vermeulen is the founder of The Career Mint. She is the messenger (put the gun down, you!), working closely with the mentors and some off-site experts to address the hard-hitting career topics in articles like the one you’re reading now.
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