Mentoring
Mentoring can mean different things to different people and it occurs in different forms in different cultures. Basically, mentoring involves one person helping another to grow and develop new skills and attitudes.
Informal mentoring, where someone shows an interest in another person's development or introduces them to a new network, happens quite often. Formal mentoring however, involves a formally established relationship for a short period of time. A facilitator matches mentees with mentors who can help the mentee meet specific objectives and goal during the term of the relationship.
Mentoring programs are being implemented to help women become more effective in their current roles and help them move onto higher positions, paid and volunteer, within the sport and recreation industry.
A mentor can help someone to:
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see their strengths and weaknesses
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clarify what goals and needs they have
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identify future options and directions
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determine the action necessary to achieve their goals
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assist in overcoming barriers to professional development
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access the skills and knowledge the mentee requires to move forward.
Mentoring can provide a spark, or the inspiration for the mentee to achieve their professional and personal goals through a variety of roles such as counsellor, sponsor, coach and supporter. Mentoring relationships have a greater chance of success if they have the support of the organisations of those involved. It benefits the mentee, the mentor and the organisation involved.
Mentors often see their involvement as 'giving something back' and the personal benefits they gain vary from one individual to another. Most mentors say they get a great deal of satisfaction from sharing their knowledge and skills, and they have their own perspectives challenged by the mentee.
For the mentees, being involved in a facilitated mentoring program provides them with opportunities to acquire feedback, knowledge, specific competencies and support for their growth. They have someone they can discuss ideas and challenges with, and they often gain greater confidence and empowerment. The organisation benefits from having re-energised staff and increased employee motivation. Successful mentees often become mentors and better people managers.
