• Establish Clear Expectations: Both mentors and mentees should have a clear understanding of the goals, scope, and duration of the mentoring relationship.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure that all discussions and information shared during the mentoring relationship are kept private.
• Respect Boundaries: Both mentors and mentees should respect each other's time, resources, and personal boundaries.
• Be Flexible: Be willing to adjust the mentoring relationship as needed to meet the evolving needs of both parties.
• Focus on Growth and Development: The primary goal of mentoring should be to help mentees grow professionally and personally.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate the milestones and achievements of both the mentor and the mentee.
• Evaluate the Relationship: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the mentoring relationship and make adjustments as needed.
• End the Relationship Gracefully: When the goals of the mentoring relationship have been achieved or when it's no longer serving the needs of either party, end the relationship respectfully and thoughtfully.

Guidelines for Mentors

The mentor’s role is to be an accountability partner; to ask questions which help the mentee think about their challenges and keep motivation; to provide honest positive feedback and encourage progress; to offer constructive feedback and recommend changes, provide encouragement, and on occasion, agree to be an advocate and network resource for the mentee. 

• Build Trust: Create a safe and confidential space where mentees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.
• Provide Guidance and Support: Help mentees navigate their careers, offering advice, sharing experiences, and connecting them with resources.
• Offer Constructive Feedback: Provide specific, actionable feedback that helps mentees identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Encourage Proactive Learning: Motivate mentees to take ownership of their development and seek out learning opportunities.
• Be a Role Model: Demonstrate the behaviors and skills you want your mentee to develop.
• Be Available and Responsive: Make yourself available to the mentee and respond promptly to their inquiries.
• Respect Time and Boundaries: Value both your mentee's and your own time and be mindful of boundaries.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of your mentee's information and discussions.
• Stay Engaged and Committed: Make the mentoring relationship a priority and stay actively involved.
• Adjust Your Style: Adapt your mentoring approach to meet the individual needs of your mentee.

Guidelines for Mentees

The mentee should drive the agenda (come to the meeting with a plan) for future meetings, including reports on progress, describing barriers encountered, resource needs, and any information needed to reach decisions or take next action steps. 

• Be Proactive and Engaged: Take the initiative to set goals, seek guidance, and participate in the mentoring relationship.
• Be Clear About Your Goals: Clearly define your goals and areas for development so the mentoring relationship can be focused and productive.
• Be Open to Feedback: Be receptive to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth.
• Be Prepared for Meetings: Come to meetings with a clear agenda and a willingness to discuss your progress and challenges.
• Respect Your Mentor's Time: Be mindful of your mentor's schedule and commitments.
• Communicate Clearly: Effectively communicate your needs and expectations to your mentor.
• Seek Out Learning Opportunities: Actively pursue new skills and knowledge that will help you achieve your goals.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of your mentor's information and discussions.
• Reflect on Your Progress: Regularly evaluate your progress and make adjustments as needed
• Be a Good Communicator: Clearly articulate your needs and goals to your mentor, and listen attentively to their feedback.