How to Become a Mentor

A mentor may come in many forms, from a fourth grade teacher or favorite aunt to a basketball coach. All mentors share is the ability to listen and encourage. These wise and trusted friend and guides listen to you, believe in you and help to shape the person you become in the future. Make a difference in someone else's life by mentoring them. Read on to learn how to become a mentor.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Help to shape the younger generation by sharing what you know. Speak to a classroom about something you have expertise in. Make it something valuable and appropriate for the age level--something they will carry with them into the future.

2. Personally mentor a student or a teacher. This works well if the person has a strong interest in your field, professional career or personal interests. If you already work in education, connecting to this audience may be simpler.

3. Check with human resources or a professional development office at your place of employment if you are an adult interested in becoming a professional mentor. They may have an established program.

4. Check with your local school district to learn if there is a formal student mentoring program you can contribute to in your spare time.

5. Volunteer in an area of your interest in order to meet potential mentees. Coaching little league, joining Big Brothers Big Sisters, or joining any other organization relevant to your hobbies and concerns can provide the perfect environment for mentoring.

6. Decide what your experience, insight and advice would offer a mentee. Ask family and friends whom they would see as a good match for you as a mentor.

7. Approach someone you have in mind and discuss how you would like to help them as a mentor. Discuss their goals, a timeline, and how you might be able to contribute.