Even though it is not a necessity, having a mentor as a writer helps you grow faster than you could by yourself. However, sometimes challenges arise and it is not always easy to find someone who is as invested in your future as you are. Some considerations are important for every mentor-mentee relationship to last and be productive.

Consider the long haul

As writers, we are constantly evolving. As we gain more experience in our craft, we change and re-evaluate how we have always done things. The benefit of having a mentor is that they have already lived and experienced this journey. Hence, when I am looking for a mentor I usually consider a mentor who is where I want to be in the future. They are more likely to understand the challenges at each stage and offer relevant advice.

Someone who believes in you

A mentor should always be respectful of the mentee. This does not mean sheltering them from the truth. It means that the mentor understands and believes in your goals as much as you do. They should be encouraging and should push you towards attaining the goals you have set for yourself. Having a person around you who discourages you with little or no basis is worse than having no mentor at all.

Someone who is accessible

Accessibility is a big indicator of someone’s perspective and investment in any relationship. If someone is constantly never available, then it is better to consider approaching someone else. The mentor should set aside enough time to have conversations with the mentee. The mentee, on the other hand, should also be courteous and respect their mentor’s time.

Someone who allows you to solve problems

Every mentor should have a certain level of wisdom and they should only offer direction but not dictate to you. They should also allow the mentee to learn and experience. Even though the mentor offers invaluable information and well-meant advice, there are some things that can only be learned through experience. A good mentor should not be dictatorial and they should not get offended when you do not act according to their advice. In the end, you should determine who you want to be as a writer and you have the right to weigh the information you are receiving from the mentor.

Have the ability to mentor people

There are many experts who, despite their level of success, are not good at passing on knowledge. Having expertise in a certain area does not automatically translate to being a suitable mentor to someone. The mentee should, therefore, evaluate the possibility of a successful relationship with their preferred mentor. The relationship between a mentor and a mentee is somewhat personal even though it requires professionalism. The mentee will need to open up and express their desired achievements and their current challenges to their mentor. They should feel comfortable to express themselves and, in turn, the mentor should feel free to communicate their thoughts frankly but respectfully.