Being the best mentee

Often, a new hire will come into a Mentor – Mentee relationship with the expectation that the mentor will provide the support and training necessary for the new hire (the mentee) will need to survive and grow to thrive. In truth, a healthy and dynamic Mentor – Mentee relationship will require commitment, flexibility, and effort coming from each person in the working partnership. This is a two way street, so how can you help set yourself up for success?

1) Set Clear Goals

Define your specific goals, challenges, concerns, and fears. Determine how you will achieve these goals and manage your challenges. Think about these categories and what might help you:

• Proficiency issues → surgery time, regular rounds?

• Time management → longer appointment times?
• Client relationships → help with difficult conversations?
• Team or hospital issues → developing trust and respect, routine policy? 
• Personal issues → debt management, work-life balance? 

Tell your mentor how close you want them to be. Do you want them standing by you and coaching you through the process or do you just need them to be a phone call away?

2) Be Proactive

Take initiative in your learning and seek opportunities for networking and growth outside the mentor sessions. Develop your own differentials, diagnostic recommendations, and treatment plans. Come prepared for meetings, show enthusiasm, ask questions, and engage in discussions. Show your mentor that you are invested in your own development.

3) Listen Actively

Give your full attention to your mentor (stay off your phone)! Be open-minded and receptive to their insights and advice. Take notes to help you remember key points.

4) Seek Guidance, Not Solutions

Instead of expecting your mentor to provide all the answers, focus on learning from their experience. They can offer perspectives and help you navigate challenges, but ultimately, it is important for you to develop your own problem-solving skills and become self-sufficient.

5) Embrace Feedback

Expect, seek, and be able to accept constructive criticism graciously. Use it as an opportunity to grow and improve. Ask for specific examples of how you can enhance your skills or performance. Feedback can and will come from many people in the practice, not just your mentor, and that is great! The support staff in a practice have a lot to offer in helping you as an early career veterinarian. 

6) Maintain Regular Communication

Make time for meetings and stay in touch with your mentor. Provide updates on your progress, challenges, and wins. Your needs will change as you grow, and ongoing communication will allow them to provide continuous guidance and support.

7) Build a Relationship

Show gratitude for your mentor’s time and expertise. Be respectful of their boundaries. Engage in conversations beyond the scope of mentorship, share interests, and show curiosity.

8) Take Action and Apply What You Learn

Act on the advice and insights you receive from your mentor. Apply the new strategies, techniques, or approaches. This demonstrates your commitment and provides valuable experience.

9) Pay it Forward

Consider becoming a mentor to someone else. Sharing your personal experience can deepen your own understanding and contribute to the growth of others.