CHAPTER 4
Preparing
Getting Ready for a Mentoring Relationship
FEW RELATIONSHIPS IN LIFE give us a real opportunity to engage with the other person, to begin to know them, to understand their contexts and motivations, and to let them see who we are—before we jump in. For the mentoring relationship, the preparation phase is just that opportunity. Although it may be tempting to skip this phase—especially if you feel pressed for time or you and your mentoring partner seem to have instant rapport—resist that impulse with all your might. Consciously setting aside the time needed to prepare yourself and your relationship promises a satisfying and productive mentoring experience for you and your mentee.
Just as a good gardener always prepares the ground ...
