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Mentorship programs are powerful tools for personal and professional growth—you already know that! We've covered why mentors are important for women, how to find a mentor, and the difference between mentors and sponsors. Bottom line: when you’re paired with a mentor, you gain the opportunity to learn directly from someone who has already walked the path you hope to follow.
Now, with the Women in Travel Thrive EMEA mentorship program currently accepting applications (it's free, sign up!), it reminded me that as a mentee, getting the most out of a mentorship program requires more than just showing up. It takes intentional planning, proactive engagement, and a clear understanding of your goals.
Having recently been a mentee myself in a different program with a wonderful mentor, I found that, even after more than two decades in the workforce, I underestimated the thought and effort it takes to maximize the value of mentorship program. Learn from my experience—dive into the prep, and you’ll truly reap the benefits. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your mentorship journey.
1. Set Clear Goals and Objectives
Before your first meeting, take time to reflect on what you hope to achieve from the mentorship. Do you want to develop certain skills, gain insight into a specific area, or learn how to handle workplace challenges? Writing down your goals can help focus the mentorship on topics that matter most to you. Also, share these objectives with your mentor early on, so they can better understand how to support you. Remember, the clearer your goals, the more productive and fulfilling your mentorship experience will be.
2. Be Prepared and Organized
Mentors are busy professionals who have volunteered their time to guide you, so respect their time by being punctual and come prepared to each session. Bring a list of topics or questions you’d like to discuss, and if your mentor gave you any homework or reading, complete it beforehand. Taking notes during your meetings will help you keep track of key insights and action items, and reviewing these notes can deepen your understanding over time. You may want to keep these notes in a specific journal.
3. Take Initiative and Be Proactive
As the mentee, it’s up to you to drive the relationship forward. Don’t wait for your mentor to reach out or to steer every conversation. Take the lead in scheduling meetings, setting the agenda, and following up on previous discussions. If there’s a particular area where you need more guidance, don’t hesitate to ask for it. Proactive engagement shows your mentor that you’re committed to your growth and that you value their time and input.
4. Build a Personal Connection
While professional goals are the foundation of any mentorship, building a personal connection can enrich the experience for both you and your mentor. Take time to get to know your mentor on a personal level – learn about their hobbies, interests, experiences, and values. Ask about their career journey, pivotal moments, and the challenges they’ve overcome. Establishing a deeper connection can make the mentorship feel more genuine and comfortable, and it often leads to more open, insightful conversations.
5. Be Open to Feedback – And Act on It
A mentor’s role is to help you improve, and that often means providing constructive feedback. Being open to their input – especially when it’s difficult to hear – is one of the best ways to grow. Remember, feedback is a gift designed to help you develop. Show that you’re receptive by acknowledging their feedback and discussing how you plan to implement it. Acting on their advice demonstrates respect and commitment to learning, and it encourages your mentor to continue providing valuable insights.
6. Track Your Progress
Periodically reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of your mentorship and assess your progress. Are you gaining the skills you aimed for? Are your conversations with your mentor helping you achieve your objectives? Keeping track of your progress can help you identify areas where you might need additional guidance and adjust your goals as needed. It also allows you to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, which can motivate you to keep moving forward.
7. Show Appreciation
Mentors are sharing their wisdom, experience, and time with you, so show your appreciation. A simple “thank you” can go a long way, but you can also express your gratitude in more personal ways, such as sending a thank-you note, acknowledging their impact on your progress, or sharing how their guidance has helped you grow.
8. Keep the Door Open for the Future
While your formal mentorship program may have a set timeframe, that doesn’t mean your relationship with your mentor has to end. As you approach the end of your program, discuss ways to stay in touch, whether through occasional check-ins or sharing updates about your career journey. A strong mentorship relationship can become a lifelong professional connection, and your mentor may continue to be a source of guidance and support long after the formal mentorship ends.
Like anything else, the more effort you put into your mentorship, the more you’ll get out of it—and your mentor will appreciate your dedication and enthusiasm along the way. Good luck!