When business leaders discuss mentoring, these skills are often cited as indicators of success:

• help others identify potential, visualize development, set goals, produce results, evaluate outcomes, and reflect on the process
• willing to act as a guide, teacher, role model, confidant and advisor without using authority to take charge, intimidate,or undermine a partnership (communication at adult-to-adult level, not boss/subordinate or parent/child)
  maintain open communication using empathic listening, reflective questioning, clear dialogue and respect for the viewpoint of others
• exhibit a curiosity for learning, cultivate excellence in their work, and display enthusiasm for their role in helping others
• enjoy sharing vaulable knowledge and skills, using a variety of approaches to address different learning needs and styles
• balance the need for support and independence when working with colleagues
  
• demonstrate thoughtful problem-solving and decision-making techniques matched with an appropriate balance of risk-taking and reserve, innovation and improvement
  
• provide solid, useful feedback
  
• manage time and resources to be flexible and available to incorporate mentoring in day-to-day activities

If the list sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Each of us will see our strengths and weaknesses; each has much to offer as a mentor and much room to grow as we help others. Thanks for being willing to join in the journey!

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