Elements of a Successful Mentorship
| Element | Considerations & Examples |
|---|---|
| Time | Frequency Weekly, monthly, or quarterly.Scheduling Duration of meeting (quick consult vs check-in). Schedule to protect meeting times and reschedule if necessary. Decide on mutually agreed-upon times/days.Accountability Determine how to inform each other of schedule changes and in what time frame changes need to be made (day before, etc.). |
| Trust | Respect Consideration of cultural and personal differences. Discretion/Confidentiality Safe Space Model the Behavior |
| Communication | Transparency Explain how and why systems are developed.Openness and Nonjudgment Be open to new ideas, sentiments, feedback, and criticisms. Avoid judgment and assume positive intent.Mode Identify personal preference to determine the success of interpretation (e.g., discerning tone from a text message). Define the best mode of communication (email, text, phone call, or video chat). Personality/Learning Styles Conflict Resolution |
| Respect for All Identities and Barriers | Pronouns Ensure that pronouns are defined and used properly in all communication.Name Preference Doctor vs first name, correct pronunciation and spelling of name.DEIB Influences Appreciate diversity, value inclusion, and support feelings of belonging. Seek ongoing training with a focus on implicit bias, impact of privilege, barriers, and limitations due to things like financial realities, life stage demands, roles as caretakers, and/or cultural differences and expectations. |
The 2023 AAHA Mentoring Guidelines are generously supported by Chewy Health and Merck.
