At a recent Ottawa SAGE Mentor Think Tank, we gathered entrepreneurs and mentors and held an entrepreneur \u201ctell-all\u201d which included an unpacking of tips and tricks for a successful mentoring relationship from the entrepreneurs\u2019 perspectives.<\/p>\n
We learned it pays to sweat the small stuff. Here\u2019s what entrepreneurs had to say:<\/p>\n
Location, location, location<\/strong>. It <\/strong>plays a big factor in the consistency and frequency of mentoring meetings. According to two entrepreneurs who own retail businesses, the consistency and frequency increased with their mentors\u2019 availability to meet them onsite either during or after retail business hours. Although we have learned that face-to-face meetings are most effective, if scheduling meetings becomes the barrier to regular communication, consider virtual mentoring as an alternative during those tough-to-meet times.<\/p>\n Have your own ducks in a row<\/strong>. <\/strong>It may go without saying, but have you asked yourself, \u201cAm I prepared to be a mentor?\u201d As well as, \u201cIs my career\/business in a stable place to allow for time and space to support and assist an entrepreneur through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship?\u201d If you are experiencing much change and transition in your own life \u2013 whether it is career, family, or business related \u2013 the adage, \u201cPut your own oxygen mask on first and then assist others,\u201d applies here.<\/p>\n A \u201cway to go\u201d email contributes to relationship staying power. <\/strong>A short motivational email can go a long way. Entrepreneurs at the Ottawa \u201ctell-all\u201d stressed how important it is for mentors to learn what drives their entrepreneur. What makes your entrepreneur tick?\u00a0 When entrepreneurs find themselves in down times, here\u2019s your opportunity to step into your supportive mentor role by sending a short email, leaving an inspiring message, or boosting social media support for your entrepreneur \u2013 do what you can to show you\u2019re in this mentoring relationship together.<\/p>\n Just as in any relationship, sweating the small stuff and showing your support in little ways can have positive lasting effects. Keep these tips top of mind to optimize your mentoring relationship; they are oldies but goodies.<\/p>\n