The secret to a successful mentoring relationship is the same as any successful relationship – there needs to be value for both sides. The benefits of mentoring can only be realised with the passing of time, which means the dialogue has to be sustainable.
Too often, finding a mentor is approached as a matching exercise, where it’s expected that an engagement will be sustained because of a common element, like a shared profession, experience or background.
Instead, try to approach finding a mentor as a value proposition for both sides.
What will it take for a dialogue to continue?
Why would a mentor choose to continue giving their time and experience?
Why would a mentee choose to continue giving their time and attention?
.