Defining the term “good” is one of the hardest things to do. For centuries, philosophers around the world have attempted to define the term. Some decided that what is good is what is virtuous, whereas others defined good as that which maximises pleasure. Some philosophers even went to the extremes of saying that “good” is indefinable and that we understand the term “good” in the same way that we understand “yellow”. With this being said, how is then that we can define what is meant by a good mentor? Is it possibly to objectively say what a good mentor should be like? I would argue that we can, in fact, explain what a good mentor is like. A good mentor is an individual who has the capacity to maximise the progress of his or her client and, by extension, puts them in the best position to achieve success. In order to do so, however, a good mentor must have certain characteristics and traits which enable him or her to adequately deal with clients. Being a good mentor is one of the toughest things to do, especially when you are faced with so many different clients, each of whom has different issues. Let us, hence, explore what a good mentor is like and how you can become a good mentor.
First and foremost, I would argue that a good mentor is caring. A good mentor must have the capacity to care for his clients because this will enable him or her to fully understand the extent of the client’s issues. By being caring, the mentor will be able to empathise with the client and will, consequently, be able to come up with the best possible solutions for the client. Being caring involves paying attention to the client’s emotional condition and acting in a manner which matches that condition. In essence, being caring is the best way for a good mentor to establish a good relationship with the client.
Secondly, I would argue that a good mentor is knowledgeable. In order to deal with a client, a mentor must have ample amounts of knowledge. Only with sufficient knowledge will a mentor be able to offer suitable solutions. This knowledge can be acquired through years of studying and research; however, it is imperative for it to be delivered in the right way. If good knowledge is delivered in the wrong way it will not be received, so this part is really important.
In summary, these are just two qualities of a good mentor. A mentor will never be perfect, but he or she must try their best to improve themselves as much as they can. Only then will they achieve their own goals. For more information on what a good mentor is like, or on mentoring in general, visit https://www.selfmadebook.uk/mastermindgroup/