The art of mentoring

No matter if you became a mentor because it was a natural progression, or you just needed the class for recertification credits – you’re a mentor. We teach the parents in our Cooperative Co-Parenting workshops, simply having a child does not make you a good parent… it takes work. The same principle can be applied to being a mentor. Mentoring can be tough, draining, nerve racking. At the same time though, it’s rewarding, fulfilling, and exciting to see new mentee mediators blossom into well rounded and thoroughly thinking conflict resolution service providers.

If you’re a mentor, remember to stick to the basics. Make the mentee feel comfortable by introducing yourself and showing them around the courthouse or Center. Be sure to get to know them, what they want to practice in the session, and what kind of feedback they’ve received before from other mentors. Use your mediation skills to coach the mentee on specific steps you expect to see from them! Yes, mediation skills can be used in and out of the mediation…

Finally, when it’s time for debriefing, keep it positive. Now, I know you’re thinking of the most difficult mentee you ever worked with and are saying to yourself, “How can I keep THAT positive?” Well, it certainly isn’t easy, but you’ve gotten out of tough mediations before & this is no different. Try to say at least one or two good things for ever thing they should change. When you tell your mentee something to change, offer a few suggestions & even model the behavior or example how you would have said it in the mediation room. Lastly, ensure the mentee has the opportunity to give you feedback. This makes the process feel more equitable, plus you’ll get to learn something new about yourself and your mentor style which could potentially lead you to being the best mentor you can be.

Amanda Burbage