Mentoring doesn’t have to be all business. Getting to know your mentor/mentee on a personal level can enhance the relationship by building camaraderie and trust. Your professional relationship does not preclude a personal connection. Instead of jumping right to business when you next meet, why not start the conversation by asking, How was your weekend? Do you have other tips for getting acquainted? Please share them below.
Argonne National Laboratory
Share that you take time for your hobbies or to exercise. For example say “I am going to that Yoga class at noon today during lunch break” or “I am going running”. You may end up with a running-buddy
I am going to partake in a serious case of the Blues this weekend. Not sad, just like good music. Sure to suplement with a bike workout and walk downtown.
Ask about families, especially if you see a family photo in his/her office. I’ve never met a parent who doesn’t enjoy a few moments of gushing about their children and it’s a great way to get to know another side of someone at work.
You could also ask ‘how do you spend your weekends’? It could open a little window to a personal conversation and you might end up as friends.