Mentoring consists of a long-term relationship focused on supporting the growth and development of the mentee. The mentor becomes a source of wisdom, teaching, and support, but not someone who observes and advises on specific actions or behavioral changes in daily work/life.

 

Someone in my real (read: non-Glib) life, recently commented that I am their mentor in a specific area of my professional endeavors. I was surprised by this, as I certainly hadn’t thought of myself or our relationship that way. Sure, I offer excellent advice when asked, and am a truly great listener (I get it from my mother), but it had never occurred to me that this person held that view.

So. Do you have/have you had a non-family mentor in any area of your life? Was it an acknowledged mentoring relationship? Did it start out that way or did it evolve?

Have you been a mentor? What was the experience like for you?

Discuss!