What are some of the common mistakes to avoid when working with a mentor:
- Don’t start a mentoring relationship without knowing what you want and what you can offer. You should have clear goals and expectations, and communicate them to your mentor. You should also agree on some rules and boundaries for the relationship. This will help you both stay focused and respectful.
- Don’t rely on your mentor to do everything for you or tell you what to do. You should prepare for each meeting, ask questions, and update your mentor on your progress and challenges. You should also take action on their advice and share your results with them. You are responsible for your own development and actions.
- Don’t ignore or reject your mentor’s feedback and suggestions. You should be open to learning from them, even if they challenge you or make you uncomfortable. You should also be flexible to try new things or change your plans if your mentor suggests so. Your mentor is there to help you grow and learn, not to confirm what you already know or want.
- Don’t forget to respect and appreciate your mentor. You should respect their time and opinions, and follow through on your commitments and actions. You should also thank them and acknowledge their contributions to your success. You can also offer your help or support to your mentor if they need it. A mentoring relationship is a two-way street, not a one-way transaction.
- Don’t lose your curiosity and engagement in the learning process. You should ask questions, listen actively, reflect critically, and apply what you learn. You can also seek feedback from your mentor on how you can improve your communication and interaction skills. A mentoring relationship is a great opportunity to develop not only your technical skills, but also your interpersonal skills.
I hope this helps you understand the common mistakes better.