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Principles of Mentoring

Principles of Mentoring

Mentoring is the process by which a mentor guides the career and development of a mentee.  For an academic mentoring relationship to succeed, it needs to be underpinned by the following principles:

  • Ownership of the mentoring process rests with the mentee and s/he drives the mentoring agenda.  The mentee is responsible for initiating contact with the mentor.
  • The mentor relationship is confidential. Discussions between the mentor and mentee must not be divulged to a third party without the agreement of both parties.
  • Academic mentoring is distinct and separate from the NUI Galway Performance Management Development System.
  • Mentoring is nondirective in its approach.
  • Mentoring is a relationship built upon trust and mutual respect.
  • The mentor empowers the mentee to take responsibility for their own learning and career development.
  • The mentor offers a safe environment to the mentee within which they can discuss work related issues and explore solutions.
  • The mentoring relationship places no obligation on either party beyond its developmental intent.