Recognise their strengths It is the mentor’s job to help the apprentice reach their full potential. To accomplish this, it is best that you help them understand and build upon their strengths. A good leader will pay attention to what people do outside of work to see what their talents are. As you get to know your apprentice, pay attention to what they do for fun and in their spare time to see how this aligns with their roles in the workplace. Earn their trust By earning the trust of your apprentice, it gives them the confidence needed to share their goals and concerns. Building a trusting relationship takes time and patience. There are daily behaviours that will help earn the trust of your apprentice, including; • Give credit to your apprentice for their accomplishments • Model the behaviour that you’d expect from your apprentice • Act as a support with assignments where applicable, or when the apprentice may ask for help • Be transparent and approachable regarding tough decisions and feedback Identify and pursue their goals As a mentor, do not be afraid to encourage your apprentice to aim high with “stretch goals”. Stretch goals are ambitions that can only be reached by taking big leaps. Speak with your apprentice about where they see themselves in their careers in five and ten years. You should the work with your apprentices and the College to define a path to help reach their goals with measurable milestones. This will help to ensure that the apprentice does not get overwhelmed or lose any confidence.
Preston College offers a Level 4 Learning & Skills Mentor apprenticeship for those looking to upskill in their role as mentor. For more information, please contact 01772 225768 or email employerenquiry@preston.ac.uk
T 01772 225768
W www.preston.ac.uk
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