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