If both parties can’t hold the other member accountable, the relationship will fall apart. Both mentors and mentees should set clear expectations for each other and feel empowered to hold the other to their commitments.
Effective accountability is built on respect. Mentees need to respect their mentor’s time and the perspective they bring to the relationship. This guarantees that mentees won’t take the partnership for granted.
Likewise, mentors should understand their charges’ challenges and respect their goals enough to push them when needed. They should be able to hold their mentee accountable to what they say they want from the relationship.