Trust is the linchpin of any successful relationship, and mentorships are no different. A successful mentorship is built on T.R.U.S.T. – and trust in a mentoring relationship is the key to ensuring that both the mentor and mentee can share their own personal experiences in a candid and safe environment. So how do you build trust to ensure a successful mentorship?
Transparency
As the mentor, work to build meaningful relationships through sharing your story. One modern definition of transparency is: “transparency is the currency of trust.” A good mentoring relationship ensures that both the mentee and mentor are comfortable in sharing their thoughts and perspectives with each other.
Respect
Showing respect, listening to understand, putting personal views and values to one side, respecting differences for shared learning through new ideas. “Respect for ourselves guides our morals. Respect for others guides our manners.”
Understanding
When one can walk in the boots of the other and show complete empathy, listening to ignite not listening to interrupt… then trust will follow. Create a “fail forward” culture. Ask for examples of failing and trying again. What were the lessons?
Say what you mean
“Find your voice, speak your truth, listen deeply. More meaningful and mindful conversations will follow”
Thrive
Spending time together, enjoying great conversations, having a sense of connection, are the characteristics of a thriving relationship
Some other great practices to maintain during your mentorship include:
- Meeting on a regular basis, using email or phone to communicate in between
- Taking the time to notice and give genuine compliments on your mentor/mentees skills, knowledge, and attitudes
- Ask specific and directed questions to regularly assess and give feedback
- Introduce your mentee/mentor to your network
The most successful mentorships are ones where the goals and desired outcomes are clearly established between mentors and mentees. If you are concerned about whether your mentorship is going in the right direction, try asking yourself these questions:
- Are the meeting schedules sufficient and long enough?
- Have you established a connection with each other?
- Are you making progress? Are objectives being met?
- What do you need to change to make your time together more efficient?
- Are you both adhering to the commitments you made to each other?
- Is the purpose clear? Are your current goals clear?
For more on how to make the most of your mentorship, have a browse through our Guide To Your Mentorship.
