Starting Off on the Right Foot: Four Steps Towards Building a Positive Mentoring Relationship

Thanks to all who attended the volunteer and mentor happy hour at Tacos and Tequila last Thursday, March 27! Our coordinators had a great time getting to know you and are looking forward to seeing you again next month! If you missed the happy hour, check out the handout below, based on information from “Meaningful Mentoring.“

1. Listen attentively

Sit with an open, calm posture. Laugh with your student and show genuine interest in what he/she is saying and doing.
Example Scenario: Your student takes out a book about the Great Barrier Reef and begins talking about it. You listen as your student talks and lean in slightly in your seat.

2. Ask inviting questions

Limit the number of questions you ask your student during your time together
Use “what” or “how” questions. Avoid “why” questions.
Example Scenario: As your student talks about the book, occasionally ask your student “what” he or she likes about the book or “how” she became interested in reading about the Great Barrier Reef.

3. Summarize content and feeling

When your student speaks or does something, occasionally say something that summarizes what he or she said or did
Example Scenario: Show that you were listening to your student by re-stating, in your own words, what you heard him or her say. Include any facts about the Great Barrier Reef that the student seemed most interested in speaking about.

4. Strategic self-disclosure

Tell your student some things about yourself over time. Use your own experiences to further explain something the student is reading or doing to give more context and create better understanding.
Example Scenario: Tell your student about a time when you visited a coral reef. Or tell your student about an interesting book or article that you have been reading and have your student ask you inviting questions this time.