In the course of our lives, we have all had a mentor at one time or another. But what is a mentor, actually? A mentor is someone who influences us and marks us in some way, generates confidence, and models positive behaviors.
Over the years I have been fortunate to have had many different mentors to guide me. My first mentor was Miss Blanca, who was my language teacher at school when I was barely 12 years old. I remember the day she told me: “Never stop writing, Bisila” and, since then, her message has inspired me to delve into the world of words. Later, I found many mentors at work who gave me advice and pushed me to excel. My husband Ulrich has also been a great mentor to me throughout our years together. So you see; mentors can be found everywhere: among our co-workers, in our circle of friends, and even among family members.
Today, after the many mentors who have passed through my life, I have become one, too. I am the Official Mentor of the City of New York, of the Cherie Blair Foundation, and of the Global Thinkers Forum. I also have my own mentoring program: BBKnowsBest, through which I have had the opportunity to mentor many amazing people around the world.
In my experience as a mentor, I can say that mentoring not only impacts the life of the mentee or apprentice, but it gives the mentor a unique opportunity to grow and continue learning through the process. Assuming the role of mentor is a rewarding task because it generates an exchange of experiences and skills that help shape people’s futures.
Next, I will share with you my “Eight Keys to Becoming a Successful Mentor”:
1. Maintain open communication
It is essential that the mentor fully understands the mentee’s expectations and encourages open and candid communication. This practice facilitates the exchange of ideas and makes it possible to address concerns and challenges effectively.
2. Show genuine interest
Genuine interest is a fundamental pillar because it strengthens human relationships and allows for a deeper connection with others. By showing genuine interest, the mentor is able to understand the needs and aspirations of the apprentice, which allows the mentor to guide the apprentice towards significant development.
3. Practice active listening
To achieve an enriching mentoring process, I recommend practicing active listening, which goes far beyond just listening. It is the task of the mentor to go beyond merely hearing the words by “reading between the lines.” This will allow you to understand what their fears, emotions, and aspirations are.
When we listen carefully, we create a healthy space where the mentee feels valued, and the mentor identifies opportunities for improvement to chart a path to growth and success.
4. Develop Emotional Intelligence
It is vital to cultivate our own emotional intelligence in order to guide others in their personal and professional development. When we are aware of our emotions and how they can influence our decisions and actions, we can develop a calm attitude and convey a sense of security that motivates students to trust our guidance.
As mentors, our ability to manage emotions in a positive way is beneficial to the mentoring experience as it creates a space for trust, support, and growth for mentees.
5. Show Honesty and Transparency
The value of honesty and transparency cannot be overlooked. Exceptional mentors are characterized by being sincere and genuine in their actions and by their ability to approach challenges with love, understanding, and especially, truth. Only through honesty can human relationships be built where trust prevails over time.
Likewise, when mentors employ transparency and openly share the challenges, experiences, and achievements they have had in life, they are able to inspire their mentees to embrace their own imperfections and evolve to become their very best.
6. Celebrate progress
Celebrating and acknowledging a student’s progress is an extremely valuable practice. Every step, however small it may seem, represents a significant achievement and deserves to be recognized. This practice of positive feedback builds trust and confidence and motivates mentees, helping them develop a sense of achievement.
7. Be an example
If you want to become the best mentor you can be, it is essential to demonstrate leadership skills, be patient, practice empathy, be clear about your values and objectives, and above all, to be consistent between what you say and do. In this way, you can become a source of inspiration for your apprentices, thus sowing the seeds of growth in their personal and professional careers.
8. Be enthusiastic and generous
It is essential to infect others with our own enthusiasm and passion for learning and growth. When we are enthusiastic, we deliver our message energetically, thereby inspiring the student to embrace new ideas and possibilities.
In addition, if we are generous, we will be willing to help beyond what is required, offering time, knowledge, and unconditional support. When we share our life experience without reservations, we are able to empower others with valuable resources for their development and growth. This combination of enthusiasm and generosity allows us to create an ideal environment where mentees can reach their full potential.
Remember: becoming a successful mentor will bring rewarding benefits to your life. You will cultivate good human relationships, learn from your mentees and, above all, you will help make a significant difference in the lives of many people.
If you are ready to embark upon an adventure of personal and professional growth, I invite you to join me on this journey. If you leave me a message in the comments section, I will be very happy to answer you.
Hugs,
Bisila
