Common Mentoring Challenges

Common Mentoring Challenges

Connecting

Dependency

Expectation

Time

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Unrealistic expectations

Unrealistic expectations and assumptions can wreak havoc on a mentoring relationship. Overloading your mentee with information or expecting them to become your clone are two examples of unrealistic expectations that can have a negative impact on the relationship. Conversely, the mentee may expect the mentor to provide more support and direction than is reasonable under the circumstances.

Strategies for overcoming this challenge: Set mentoring objectives and goals at the outset, ideally during the first one to two meetings. Write down the agreed objectives and the actions required to achieve the objectives. Use this documented information as a point of reference in your subsequent meetings. Update and refresh the information following each meeting. This way, everyone is in agreement and clear regarding expectations.

Establishing 'chemistry'

A pairing may not work out for a variety of reasons: shyness or nervousness by one or both parties, lack of commitment on the part of one of the parties, learning styles don’t match, a change in job assignments, and, sometimes, the pair just doesn’t work well together.

Strategies for overcoming this situation: Give it time! Utilise the first few meetings to get to know each other. It takes time to build rapport, socially connect and establish mutual trust. If, after focusing on building the relationship, it seems that the connection still isn't there, one or both parties should speak to a member of People Operations. It may be possible that with additional support its possible for both parties to reconnect or find their way. However, if its clear that the match isn’t working—and can’t work—then the match can be terminated as a “no-fault opt out”

Managing comitments

Finding time

A very common challenge. Both mentors and mentees have commitments and responsibilities, both of which serve as convenient excuses for postponing a mentoring meeting. However, mentors and mentees must also remember their commitment to the programme and to each other. Failing to meet as scheduled or frequent postponements will quickly erode the foundation of your relationship.

Strategies for overcoming this challenge: Block out the time in whatever calendar app you use—and schedule meetings a few weeks out at the very least. From a mental perspective, treat the meetings as you would any workplace meeting. Don’t think of it as an extracurricular activity. It may help to involve an objective third party to help you manage the scheduling, this person can hold you and your mentee accountable.

Managing a feed me relationship

Dealing with dependency

Your mentee may show signs of being too dependent by relying heavily on your input or approval before taking actions or making decisions. Rather than moving toward independence, the mentee might check in with you before making decisions out of fear of making a mistake or receiving criticism.

Strategies for dealing with this situation: Remind your mentee that they are the ones who need to do the “heavy lifting.” They need to own and make their own decisions and remember that your role as a mentor is as a source of support and feedback. Be mindful your role as a mentor is to foster ways in which your mentee can find their own path.