A good mentor will show you the way so you don't have to struggle in different directions. They will not do the work or journey for you like an enabler would but they will provide guidance and support.
I have had a few mentors along the way and this week one of my longest and favorite mentors is retiring from the job I work at in sales. It's an ironic story since this mentor almost did not hire me at a previous job. His assistant manager recommended me. To this day I always remind him of it. We both had since left that newspaper 20 years ago to the one we both work for now.
What makes a mentor great?
- Patience
- Ability to teach and not be afraid to have you know what they know (no jealousy)
- Not afraid of letting you succeed
- Wanting you to succeed
- Trustworthy
- If they don't have an answer they will find one for you
- Accessible - you can reach them to ask questions anytime
- Providing Guidance - not telling you what to do but recommending what you could do
- Non-judgemental
