Both mentor and mentee must be active participants in their partnership. To do this effectively, they need a full understanding of what’s expected of them.
Mentees drive the course of their mentorship. It’s up to them to set goals, ask questions, and seek out advice. They need to examine their own experiences and determine their strengths and weaknesses. They know better than anyone where they need improvement, and it’s up to them to do the work required. Mentees get as much out of their mentorship as they’re willing to put in.
Mentors, on the other hand, need to be available when their mentees need support. They need to be ready to share their experiences, introduce their charges to industry contacts, and guide the relationship in fruitful directions.