5 Mentoring Skills All Great Mentors Possess

Why Mentor?

Principles to keep in mind when working with young people:

• Remember-- "aim low, go slow, think small and celebrate success"
• Teach cognitive slogans...."first things first"  "one day at a time"  "easy does it"
• Be the holder of a sense of hope.
• Celebrate small successes.
• Take the lead and persist even when the student appears disinterested. 
• Softly challenge inappropriate behavior and negative attitudes.
• Focus on the young person's strengths. 
• Be a partner with your young person's family. 
• Help them take a personal look at their behavior as it affects others.
• Remember as a mentor-- you are not responsible for others, you cannot control another person's behaviors, feelings, or decisions.
• You are your student's connector.  You connect to this student through unconditional acceptance.  There are no strings attached.
• You are another positive role model who works together with parents/guardians, teachers, resource counselors, and the Pathway Partners director in the best interest of your student mentee.