Have you already written down your mission statement?

The mission statement is a sort of strategy to apply at the beginning of any mentoring relationship. It is one of the first steps while building rapport with your mentee.

The best way to write it down is to answer the following question: What do you hope to achieve with your partnership? A simple statement would be enough to set clear expectations.

“After all, if we don’t know where we are going, chances are good we won’t get there.” (One Minute Mentor – How to find and work with a mentor – and why you’ll benefit from being one)

Our efforts automatically focused on the mentees’ perspective, writing down their expectations and long-term goals. But why don’t we consider our goals as mentors as well? I mean, both mentor and mentee will give and receive in this relationship. It is a two-way street. So, the mission should also reflect this. Everybody has their gains! Naming them helps you to measure and be aware of them.

Why have you decided to volunteer as a mentor? Has it been a rewarding activity? If you don’t know why you are volunteering, it will be difficult to measure your gains!

Let me know your mission statement! I am sure it will inspire other mentors!