Good Morning,
As we head into March, and the spring season that always brings new growth, my thoughts turn to the responsibilities of leaders as mentors.
We may serve as mentors as part of a more formal relationship (e.g. CF Mentor) or something less structured in which a colleague simply asks you to take him/her under your wing. The important thing to remember is that no matter how the relationship is established, the collaborative nature of the relationship needs to be emphasized.
Effective mentors are facilitators, not directors. They are coaches offering guidance and support, relying on the mentee to provide ongoing input as to what they need and how they think the mentor may be able to help them.
The most effective mentoring relationships occur when the mentor is able to instill the concept of the relationship as an active partnership in which each individual has a clearly defined role. That is the definition of collaboration and the key to a successful mentoring relationship in which both parties experience new growth.
I hope that your journey as leaders provides many opportunities for mentoring. It is the most enriching experience that you will ever enjoy as a leader, and ensures new growth for future leaders.
Happy Spring!
Melanie
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Melanie W. Hudson M.A., CCC-SLP F-ASHA
National Director, EBS Healthcare
Former Member, ASHA Board of Directors
melaniehudsonslp@comcast.net678-357-1856
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