How to Start a Mentoring Program

culled from:wikihow.com

Starting a mentoring program is a great way to give back to your community. For many, not knowing where to start often results in them never starting and missing opportunities to help. Mentoring someone doesn't mean you must have large funding or even a facility. Get started.

Steps

1

Ensure you have a prescribed topic to cover with your mentee. Never just "meet" with nothing planned to discuss or do, however be open to changing the topic if your mentee prefers to address something else.

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   Schedule time to connect with your mentee. Create a structured schedule where he or she can measure and identify your consistency. If you simply drop-in at your leisure, there can be conflicting schedules and they will have a harder time judging your commitment.
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   Make sure you have everything you need to create a great session. You want to bond effectively with your mentee and having the right tools such as a fishing rod, ball and bat, or a book. Tools help for engaging time for both of you.
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   Know what you want to do. Have a clear agenda of activities. There's nothing more disappointing than an unorganized mentor.
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   Believe in your mentee. Allow them to create their own reputation with you. Never stereotype or prejudge any mentee based on what others may have said to you. This can discredit your objectiveness and leadership.
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   Utilize cutting edge communication techniques. It's not only fun to a mentee, it gives you alternatives means of staying connected.