What are the key characteristics of a successful Writing mentor?

Successful writing mentors possess a blend of qualities and skills that enable them to bring out your literary best. While experience and expertise is essential, it is often addressed in a general way (such as reviewing their track record, knowledge, skills, etc.). However, I implore you to adopt a new perspective. Does the writing mentor have experience and expertise in “Mentee Empowerment?” Does the mentor have a “track record” of equipping mentees with the skills, confidence, and resources to act independently and successfully? A lifelong mentor-mentee relationship is valuable, but it is crucial to get as much knowledge, resources, and tools from your writing mentor as quickly as possible.

A writing mentor needs to be a guide to help you through the battles, preferably published so they can teach or guide you through formatting and publishing. conversant with failure as well as success but need not a best-seller. If they are within the area of your genre it will be better but is not necessary, if they are competent their knowledge will span many genres.

Giving timely constructive feedback is the primary responsibility of a mentor. Every writer has an individual style. Mentors are supposed to enhance mentee's writing, not change it entirely. Mentors should be able to identify areas for improvement and growth. It is important to balance positive reinforcement with sharing constructive criticism. Mentors should be approachable and have availability to discuss mentee's progress periodically. Mentors also need to adapt their mentoring style to suit mentee's learning preferences and evolving needs.

Often times a mentor is writing along side of you, and together you experience the highs and lows that come with writing. A mentor understands what it means to have writers block and inspires you to push past the mental barrier. They know what it means to be so filled with ideas and help you narrow them down to make your writing clear and concise. When you finish a writing goal, they give you a high-five and encourage you to make your next goal. A good writing mentor inspires, celebrates, and motivates you.

Mentor and mentee should build their relationship based on trust. It is important that the mentor respects mentee's individuality and professional goals. Mentors can keep their mentees accountable without imposing their methods and values. Mentee should also communicate effectively with mentors to make the best out of the mentorship. Clarity in goals, approach, communication, limitations, support, and potential can go a long way in building a healthy mentor-mentee rapport.

Remember that it's okay to quit working with someone you don't click with. A good mentor/mentee relationship is a delicate balance, and even the most experienced writer may not be able to provide the kind of mentorship you need, just as an experienced writer may not be able to connect with a possible mentee for any number of reasons. Finding a suitable match is key to creating a successful partnership, so don't be afraid to call it quits if the partnership isn't working for you.