PLUS Handbook
Reminders for Effective Mentoring

1. Care about mentees as individuals by showing empathy, understanding and respect.
2. Establish a warm, genuine and open relationship with your mentees.
3. Show interest and become involved.
4. Be a good and active listener.
5. Establish rapport by remembering personal information about mentees.
6. Don't betray confidential information.
7. Be available; keep appointments.
8. Be yourself while allowing mentees to be themselves.
9. Know how and when to make referrals, and be familiar with referral sources.
10. Don't refer too hastily. However, don't attempt to handle situations for which you are not qualified or prepared.
11. Keep in frequent contact with mentees.
12. Do not make decisions for mentees. Help them make their own decisions.
13. Focus on mentees' strengths and potentials rather than limitations.
14. Seek out mentees in informal meetings.
15. Be realistic when setting goals with mentees.
16. Use all available information sources.
17. Encourage mentees to talk by asking open-ended questions.
18. Categorize mentee's questions to determine if they are seeking action, information or involvement and understanding.
19. Be a good role model showing positive and appropriate behavior and attitudes.
20. If in doubt, refer to the PLUS Handbook.