What Is a Mentor?

We call them teachers, advisors, experts and even friends. But in reality, being a mentor isn't a profession, it's a role. These are often the first people we look to as valuable sources of information and advice. They can exist in every aspect of human life, whether it's professional, personal or spiritual. So no matter what your occupation is, the chances are you have at least one, probably more. But the unique part about mentors is that it takes the "pupil" to make one.

Purpose

Unlike teachers or advisors, mentors often share a personal relationship with their students. This type of tutelage is usually a mutual agreement in which the mentor will offer to teach their apprentice what they know and answer any questions they might have along the way. Tips, advice and personal experiences are also provided by mentors to help their pupil hone his or her skills. However, unlike a teacher, the role of a mentor doesn't always end. Even after the student has excelled in his pursuits, the mentor will often remain in his life as a counselor.

Education

A mentor doesn't necessarily require any formal education. That depends solely on what it is he is mentoring about. For example, if veterinary student has a mentor who advises her in veterinary training, chances are he is a certified veterinarian. But if a painter takes a young artist under his wing, he too is a mentor even if he lacks a degree in art. That is because the key to being a mentor doesn't lie specifically in academics. Instead, it's the possession of both knowledge and experience in the field a mentor is admired for that makes him credible.

Traits

The traits of a mentor include wisdom, knowledge, experience, amiability and the patience to nurture a newcomer into becoming a professional. Mentors are familiar enough to where their pupils feels comfortable sharing questions as well as any uncertainties, fears or issues they may have along the way. Also, because of their teaching role, mentors must have strong communication skills that allow them to break down elements of their expertise so that the people seeking their advice can understand it.

Significance

The significance of mentors is monumental. Some of the greatest professionals in the world got where they are today through the guidance of those they consider teachers and mentors. Even when novices become leaders, they often still seek their counsel due to the personal relationship and level of trust that are created through such bonds.

Examples

Famous sculptor Michelangelo was an apprentice for his mentor, an artist by the name of Domenico Ghirlandaio. Both singers Jewel and Whitney Houston claimed their mentors were their mothers, which exemplifies how personal a mentor's relationship can be to the student. Andy Warhol's mentor was an interior designer by the name of Jed Johnson, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. considered Mahatma Gandhi a mentor.