The Importance of Finding a Good Mentor
In an effort to improve productivity in the educational system, some schools have implemented a mentoring system designed to help new teachers ease into their initial transition in a new classroom. Even if this system has not been set up in your school, you can still benefit from a mentor/mentee relationship with a veteran teacher.
The ideal mentor/mentee relationship is built upon professionalism and respect. New teachers who seek more experienced colleagues as mentors can benefit from their veteran advice, while veteran teachers can benefit from the fresh perspectives of a newer teacher. Simply put, if you want a great relationship with your mentor, be a great mentee! But as a new teacher, it's up to you to seek out a mentor.
Wondering how to get started in finding a good mentor? Below are some strategies to help jumpstart your search.
A good mentor possesses excellent communication skills
Active listening, questioning, problem-solving and decision-making skills are key components for a mentor to provide guidance and constructive feedback. Good communication skills also enable the mentor to know when to listen and when to offer advice, when to assist and when to expect you to take the initiative. The mentor should also be able to adjust these skills based on your personality style.
A good mentor exhibits the personal attributes it takes to be successful in the field
A positive attitude, enthusiasm and a willingness to share skills, knowledge and expertise are important qualities to look for in a mentor. Your mentor should strive to be a professional role model and be respected by colleagues and employees in all levels of the school system.
A good mentor takes their role very seriously
A mentor should take a personal interest in the relationship that he or she has with you. A good mentor does not shy away from their responsibility because they feel deeply invested in your success. As a mentee, you are naturally going to make mistakes. Your mentor should take their role seriously so that they can help correct errors and develop anticipatory thinking skills, by providing constructive feedback in a helpful and non-threatening manner.
A good mentor must be secure within themselves
Mentors should not feel threatened by fresh talent and potential. They should approach their mentoring responsibilities with a non-competitive attitude. A mentor should expect that their younger mentees will produce innovative plans and be willing to provide constructive criticism without an adversarial slant. In short, they should encourage your success and willingness to express new ideas.
A good mentor values continuing education
The experienced mentor is in a unique position to demonstrate how the field is continuously changing and growing. A colleague who feels stagnant in their current position will not likely make a good mentor for you. Good mentors continually read professional journals and are committed to learning practices that are new in the field. They are open to experimentation and will encourage their mentees to value continuing education too.
In short, finding a mentor who you respect and has the skills that you wish to develop is optimal in developing the ideal mentoring relationship. This relationship may last well beyond your new teaching years. With any luck, it's a strong, supportive relationship that lasts throughout the rest of your career.
