Effective Mentoring:Roles and Responsibilities, Expectations

and Realities

Stephanie J. Bird, PhD

What is a Mentor?

Shares experience and expertise Is concerned about the professional

development of the mentee Is not the same as a thesis advisor or

research supervisor Is not the same as a role model

Mentors: What Trainees Should Know

Personal and professional relationship Trainees need several mentors Not everyone makes a good mentor Trainees should be encouraged to

evaluate a mentor’s advice

Mentors Advice

Unique perspective based on experience Potentially different values, experience and

goals Different timeframe, colleagues and institution Therefore evaluate advice from one’s own

perspective

What Mentors Should Know

Mentoring takes time and attention Different people have different needs at

different times Possible exclusionary circumstances to

watch for Need to evaluate one’s assumptions Some need more mentoring Trainees may not follow advice

Institutional/Departmental Responsibility

Mentoring is a professional responsibility Encourage and promote mentorship Provide training for mentors Reward good mentors Facilitate mentoring e.g., with group

mentoring programs Both trainees and mentors need to know

what to expect