What does a Mentor do?

I am often asked what a mentor does and how it works if someone hires me to mentor them?

A mentor is defined as ‘an experienced person who advises and helps somebody with less experience over a period of time’. 

How does it work?

1. We agree a project plan for the ‘project’ at the start, to set clear and identifiable outcomes from the beginning. The ‘project’ might be a two hour meeting or two months worth of mentoring.
2. I will set out timed/key milestones and actions.
3. We agree the necessary inputs needed from you and your team, in order to  achieve each action identified within the project plan.
4. I will conduct our mentor meetings at the agreed times (if we are working together for a period of time), either via Zoom or in person when possible.
5. I will conduct major project milestones meetings with you, to discuss progress.
6. I will conduct an end of project meeting to ensure we have completed each action identified in the project plan.
7. If the mentoring has been conducted on behalf of the Local Enterprise Office or another such agency, we will both be expected to complete the relevant paperwork.

The benefits of mentoring:

• You and your business benefit from being able to ask questions and get advice specific to your needs.
• You get a different perspective to problems and situations that you may not have thought of.
• I won’t just give you advice based on my experience; I’ll share methods, strategies and best practice to support you and your business.
• Being a business owner can be frustrating and stressful, but we’ll build a trusting relationship so that you can share any issues that are worrying you.
• Mentoring can expand your network; I can suggest or introduce you contacts that can support your business, if that’s what you need.
• I’ll give you the confidence to meet your problems head on, find solutions and grow your business. I’ll also give you a gentle push in the right direction, if you’re unsure!