(ment-ah-jer)

A manager, supervisor, leader who believes in the power of mentorship.

New word. Old idea.

Want to retain your best employees? Want to increase satisfaction for yourself and those around you? Studies show that active mentorship raises retention rates among those being mentored and those providing the mentoring. It’s a classic win-win. Why? Not surprisingly, human beings like to perform well…and…they like to help others do the same. Mentorship is a relationship and its purpose is to build a support system where ideas are exchanged, constructive advice is given, and opportunity to grow are fostered.

8 Qualities of Strong Mentors:

1. Skilled and knowledgeable

2. Trust builder (not “zapper”)

3. Active listener (with your whole body)

4. Strong analyst

5. Honest, clear communicator (what’s expected, what they’re seeing, using measurable criteria)

6. Committed and reliable

7. Role model (“be the mentor you wish you had”)

8. Cheerleader (guidance + encouragement)

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

– Benjamin Franklin