West Yorkshire Mentor Guide

have reached a shared agreement that states clearly what each party expects to give and gain from the relationship. This agreement can be verbal or a simple written summary can be used. A written version may be clearer and more useful. Remember that this is a suggestion and both Mentee and Mentor may adopt another method as long as the basics are outlined. The Mentor and Mentee may want to consider the following when looking at an agreement: • How might the agreement help? • Would the agreement be unhelpful? • How would it be unhelpful? • How do you feel about setting up a Mentoring agreement?

Mentor – Mentee meetings The meetings are the central function, allowing discussion of experiences, giving and receiving feedback, exploration of issues and talking through options for future action and development. The Mentor acts as facilitator/ enabler through skilful questioning, a non-directive, non-judgemental approach and the use of different strategies. All this needs to happen within an agreed framework around a clear purpose or purposes. The main purposes of the meeting may include: • Reviewing experience • Giving feedback • Identifying strengths and achievements • Identifying weaknesses and areas for development Exploring options

• Teaching or coaching specific skills and techniques • Engaging in discussions on professional issues • Agreeing support needs • Setting targets for future action

The emphasis on the purpose will vary both during the meeting and across the meetings and during contacts. The meetings are not the sole point of contact as individuals may use the telephone and e-mail for shorter types of contact.

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