Be a Mentor to Your Mentor

By Cynthia J. Young for Harvard Business Review | January 10, 2022

When you’re lucky enough to have a mentor, don’t just take what you need from the relationship. You want to give back as well. Your age, experience, and expertise have little to do with the value you bring to the table. To practice this “reverse mentorship,” start by figuring out exactly what it is you have to offer. Ask yourself: What challenges is your organization facing that you might have insights, information, or expertise on? Figure out what you’re great at, why it’s important to your organization, and how your mentor could use that knowledge to grow as a professional and contribute to the team. Next, voice your desire to help out in this way. You can do this in a formal check-in, or informally the next time you and your mentor are sharing a meal or having a coffee. Assuming they’re game, set clear expectations together. Should this reverse mentoring be a one-time deal, last a few weeks, or be a long-term commitment? How will you measure your success? Is there a goal they’re aiming to reach? Once you answer these questions, you and your mentor will be ready to begin.