People in every field of life, right from University research students to junior doctors in a hospital need a more experienced hand guiding and mentoring them. Even in the case of the business world mentors play a huge role in shaping the future of many aspiring professionals or entrepreneurs.
The personal accounts of many current industry leaders detailing their business journeys always mention a mentor who was a source of inspiration for them and who also guided them on their path to success. This is proof of the level of influence wielded by mentors and the important part they play in shaping people’s lives and careers, therefore it is absolutely essential that they have the necessary qualities which qualify them to hold such a responsible post. So what exactly are the qualities that go into making someone the perfectly right mentor to provide guidance to others?
1. Relevant Experience
The most basic requirement for a mentor is that they should have sufficient experience and expertise in the particular industry their mentee is starting out in. To provide the right industry specific counsel and guidance the mentor must have a wealth of experience and be successful in their own right. Being able to draw on their own experiences and knowledge not only makes the mentor the perfect guide but also makes them a source of inspiration for the mentee looking to make their own mark in the industry.
2. Approachability and Empathy
For a mentor, experience should go hand in hand with approachability and the willingness to listen. No matter the current level of success enjoyed by the mentor in the business world, remembering the numerous trials and tribulations they underwent in their journey to the top plays a very crucial role in their success as a mentor.
Relating to what the mentee is going through and lending a patient ear to them makes the mentee open up about their concerns, hopes and aspirations and helps strengthen the mentor-mentee connection.
3. Being a Guiding Force
A mentor should be someone who acts as a guiding force and provides assistance, feedback and guidance as and when required but for the most part stays in the background letting the mentee forge their own path to success. If the mentee starts to lose direction or focus of their goals, the mentor should be there to guide them back to their chosen path and help them stay focused.
4. Able to Challenge Mentees to Step out of their Comfort Zone
A mentor should also be someone who recognises the potential of the mentee and challenges them to step out of their comfort zone and work towards realising their true potential.
These are the qualities which define a truly great mentor who is responsible for inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
