An effective mentee doesn’t wait for the mentor to drive the relationship. Your mentor is there to guide you, but don’t expect them to hand you all the answers. It’s up to you to steer the conversation towards what you need. Set clear goals for what you want to achieve. If you’re struggling with a specific skill or looking to understand a new area, let your mentor know. The more you take charge of your own development, the more productive your sessions will be.
For example, if you find yourself meeting with your mentor and the conversation feels aimless, it’s time to switch things up. Before your next meeting, jot down some questions, highlight a couple of key areas you’re working on and update them on your progress. This not only respects their time but also shows that you’re serious about moving forward.
Accountability is also key. If your mentor suggests something, make sure you follow through. It’s on you to put their advice into action. They’ll respect your commitment and you’ll start seeing real growth as a result.