Training new PEOPLE – Rolling On 

 Mentoring is a good way to train new employees. It ‘s a learning and development partnership between a trusted and experienced person and someone who wants to learn. It can be a satisfying job for an experienced worker.

It can save people  from making unwise decisions and expensive mistakes. 

        It’s time-consuming and rewarding but can be satisfying for both parties. 

A handful of tips on ways to become  a successful mentor

* Both parties must be keen

        Mentoring basically is about sharing experiences.

        It can help people build their confidence and encouraging them to be successful.

        The objective should be to encourage mentees  to take on more responsible jobs. and be challenged to take on new roles, to take a few risks and to get things done.

* Chat and build a rapport  

        At the start mentor and mentee must be prepared to spend  time chatting and getting to know each other, to building a rapport.     They must be compatible and realise both have to contribute.       

        Both parties must agree to be honest and objective with their comments.  

        Discuss the role, the rules and the times of the meetings. Arrange a quiet, private place to meet.

* Set an agenda

        Plan the topics to be discussed.

        Share not only work experience but personal counselling and office politics.   Housing, travelling and family affairs can influence work activities, so these should be discussed openly.

        It is essential to keep discussions between parties confidential.

* Mentoring is a two-way activity

        A mentor must be a good questioner and a good listener. The mentor teaches more practical skills based on many years of work experiences. 

        Mentors must be prepared to listen and learn as well as giving advice and counselling.

        The mentee can contribute to the discussions by giving modern views and their interpretations of work activities. They can share their thoughts on future developments and the use of recent technology.

* Be a good example

        To be credible a successful mentor must set high standards at all times.

Geoffrey Moss , mossassociates.co.nz

“If you cannot see where you are heading, ask someone who has been there.”

 SOURCE: “Training Secrets” Moss Associates Ltd., New Zealand and Cengage Learning Asia. Also available as an e-book from Amazon.com.

 For those in need, call up our FREE book “NO JOB! WHAT NOW?” available from mossassociates.co.nz