HOW TO BE AN EFFECTIVE MENTEE?

In the wake of the WFA Mentorship Program success, which has empowered over 480 accomplished women with guidance and inspiration, the demand for mentorship is on an unstoppable rise. This escalating need highlights the pivotal role that mentorship plays in fostering growth within our sector.??

With so many people searching for a mentor – and a limited pool of mentors to draw from – how do you make the most of being in the fortunate position of having found a mentor??

Women in Food & Agriculture invited new mentees from?our latest cohort to an online workshop to put this question to them, drawing up a list of the key qualities and characteristics that they should bring to the table in their new partnership.?

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HONESTY?

Both you and your mentor should be honest when sharing information about your situation, goals, expectations, strengths, and weaknesses. Transparency is essential for effective mentorship.?

OPENESS??

Mentees should embrace feedback, new experiences, and diverse perspectives. Being receptive is crucial for productive relationships with mentors, coaches, teachers, or managers. Listen to feedback, even if you initially disagree.?

?RESPECT?

Respect each other's opinions and cultural viewpoints, and honour agreed-upon meeting times. Be prepared for follow-up discussions by completing any assigned tasks.?

?INITIATIVE?

Define your relationship goals, take the initiative, and communicate your expectations and timelines. This clarity will enhance the mentorship, ensuring you both benefit more.?

Our Mentor's Workshop summary (Keep an eye out for this! It’ll be out on Friday) reveals a significant overlap. A successful partnership hinges on mutual interest, attentive listening, and mutual learning. It seems so obvious!?

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Mentors concluded that these partnerships should always be led by the needs of you – the mentee – so here’s some things you can share in your early meetings to ensure you set off in the right direction:?

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• Share your reasons for joining the program: Your mentor will want to understand what motivated you to sign up.?
• Share your objectives: Be clear with your mentor about what you hope to achieve through the mentorship.?
• What motivates you both personally and professionally: Your mentor will want to understand your passion for the industry.?

• Learn about your mentor: Try to understand your mentor's background and experience to better connect with them.?
• Explain how you like to communicate: Establish clear communication preferences to make your mentorship more effective.?
• Be upfront about your weaknesses: tell you mentor what you think is holding you back or limiting your career options.?
• Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to ensure that the mentorship is productive and beneficial for both parties.?

We’ll be running regular sessions with both mentors and mentees of the latest cohort, so do follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date with the latest news and insights from our incredible double-acts!?

If you're interested in participating in the next Women in Food & Agriculture Mentor Program, in association with Alltech , please visit: www.wfa-initiative.com ?

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