Tips for Mentees

Each mentor offers a different set of experiences to draw upon and each will bring their own unique perspective to the mentoring relationship. Some mentors may really enjoy sharing information about their career field and will have a passion for teaching and mentoring young aspiring professionals. Other mentors may excel in the networking arena and enjoy offering job hunting tips and helping you make professional contacts. What they share in common is their commitment to help. By taking some time to prepare for the mentoring relationship, you will have a better grasp of your objectives and your mentor will have a better understanding of how they can assist you. By incorporating some of these ideas into your mentoring relationship, you may achieve better results when working with your mentors.

  • First and foremost, contact your mentor! Your mentor is expecting to hear from you even if it is only to say that you no longer need assistance, have chosen a different career field or temporarily don't have time to meet. Thank them for their participation.

  • Complete as much research as possible on the career field or organization prior to contacting your mentor. You want to ask intelligent questions and show some basic knowledge of the field. Convey a sense of commitment to your career that makes it clear to your mentor that you are motivated and mature.

  • When making initial contact, write a letter or send an e-mail explaining that you have been matched with them through GAMP. The letter should provide information about your academic or career interests and any specific questions that you may have for your mentor. Send a completed resume if it is available.

  • When it is time to call your mentor, prepare for the call by making notes in advance with questions you want to cover. If your phone skills are weak, practice. When calling your mentor for the first time, briefly:
    • Explain who you are and ask whether it is a good time to talk. Remember that the contact information is usually their home address and phone number. Avoid calls during mealtimes or after 9:00 P.M.

    • After your initial conversation or discussion you should ask for some guidelines on the best way to contact them in the future. There may be certain days, times or forms of communication that are preferred by your mentor. You can certainly offer some ideas but the convenience of the mentor should take precedence.

  • If your mentor agrees to meet with you it is important to consider the appropriateness of your dress and general grooming. If you have any questions about the dress code of a particular profession or organization then please ask your mentor directly. It is better to make a mistake on the side of being too formal than to be underdressed for an important meeting. A display of excessive body piercing may be inappropriate.

  • Always follow through on all your commitments and communications with your mentor. If your mentor has responded with a critique of your resume or provided you with general career advice, then please acknowledge receipt of the information. If you are busy, send a quick note of acknowledgment and then follow-up with a more detailed letter or conversation at a later date.

  • The key element in networking or mentoring is establishing a relationship built upon trust. A good way to start the relationship is by asking about the life experiences of your mentor and then sharing some of your significant experiences. Your mentor will be a stronger advocate for someone they know and trust.

  • Always close the communication loop by updating your mentor. You may have been successful in finding a job; perhaps you changed your major or are extremely busy at school. A quick note to your mentor is a professional courtesy and will ensure that you have not left your mentor in the dark about current situation.

  • Be persistent in your efforts to contact your mentor. The mentors are busy professionals and you may have to make several contacts before you reach them. Don't expect them to phone you back, it is your responsibility to reach them. If you are unsuccessful after repeated attempts then contact the GAMP office.

  • Send a thank you note. Your respect and appreciation is your gift to the mentoring relationship.