THE ANATOMY OF A GREAT MENTOR

The human body is a made up of different components and parts-the head, arms, torso, legs and so on. These parts come together to form a whole, which we refer to as the body. Apart from the physical parts of the body, there are also systems that make the body work-The Digestive system, Nervous system, Respiratory system, Muscular system and so on. Let’s imagine a body without a head or arms. Or a body without the nervous system or respiratory system, it is certain that such a body would not be able to function well, as a result of these limitations. A mentor can be likened to the human body. There are certain qualities that are integral, if a mentor lacks one or all of these qualities, it would be difficult for him to perform as expected.

Not just anyone can be called a mentor. A person has to have achieved some amount of success and recognition in a given field, and is seen fit to be a leader. But you see, that is not all it takes to be a mentor, and a great one at that. Being a great mentor goes beyond the accolades and laurels, it is being dedicated to helping and developing an individual, until they become a much better version of themselves.

A great mentor must be willing to share his skill, experience and expertise: To be a great mentor, you have to be willing to share what you know, remember, the whole point of mentoring in the first place is to help someone become better. Your life should be like a blue print for your mentee, let him know about your mistakes and failures so he would not make them. 

Acts as a positive role model and sets good examples: In a world where bad is the new good and vice versa, you should be a shining example.  A great mentor exhibits personal attributes with positive attitude. Set a good example for him both professionally and personally.

“In all things show yourself to be example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.”

Titus 2:7-8

Availability, Approachability and Ability to listen: The importance of these qualities cannot be overemphasized, they are like the heart in the human body. If your mentee does not find you approachable, this might dissuade them from opening up to you. To achieve this, you have to get rid of any airs or attitude that might make you appear inaccessible. It is also important that you master the art of listening.

“Listening is a strange thing, a creative force. The friend who listens to us are the one ones we move toward. When we are listened to, it creates us, makes us unfold and expand” –Karl A. Menniger

Constructive feedbacks: Honesty cannot be compromised in a mentoring relationship, as a mentor, it is your duty to offer constructive feedback to your mentee. A great mentor is honest, while being diplomatic, so as not to hurt or disrespect the person on the receiving end.

To be a great mentor, takes constant work to become better. The beauty in mentoring is that the learning and development goes both ways, whilst sharing from your wealth of knowledge you are gaining more insight as to how resourceful you can be, and the lengths you can go to help another person.