Could Your Nonprofit Benefit from a Mentor?

I was thinking the other day about the different paths my career has taken based on the involvement of some pretty smart people who cared enough to help me. So many of them served as mentors and had a direct and very selfless interest in me, especially when I was just starting out.

Perhaps you, too, have had mentors in your work life, but what about a mentor for your nonprofit endeavor? Has anyone invested one-on-one time assisting you with your nonprofit growth in such a way that you could look back on specific growth moments for which the mentor was directly responsible?

If not, I encourage you to seek out someone who can assist you, particularly in sales, marketing, accounting or any other areas where you may feel you have weaknesses in the development of your nonprofit. Here are some things to think about as you consider this step.  

What are qualities of a good mentor?

A good mentor should be considered a role model in his position or area; possess knowledge and influence; be committed to mentoring and willing to invest the time necessary; be an encouraging and motivating person; be generous in sharing his or her knowledge; and have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

How does the mentor benefit?

You are not the only person who benefits from the relationship. Good mentors gain increased respect and recognition from peers as individuals who have the ability to identify, encourage, and promote other people. Mentoring also provides the mentor with opportunities to broaden his or her network; to experience personal growth and renewal through contributing to another person’s skill development; and to enhance their value. Experienced mentors frequently claim that mentoring nonprofits keeps them sharp and creative through the challenging interplay they face with younger people.

What guidance does the mentor provide?

The content of meetings or conversations will likely be highly individualized toward you and your nonprofit's specific needs. Regardless of the particular topic, you’ll receive constructive feedback (and praise if warranted) along with specific suggestions to help improve your nonprofit. Should a significant need be noted, you might receive recommendations of classes or courses you might seek to further your academic or nonprofit development.

One good way a mentor can positively impact your life is with specific advice about prioritizing tasks and activities. People who are just starting out with a nonprofit may find themselves overwhelmed with “work.” Doing things right vs. doing the right things can become a critical stumbling block. A mentor who has "been there" can offer valuable advice about what must get done in your nonprofit and the things to let slide. He or she also may be a good resource on the touchy topic of how to say no (and to whom) to certain demands on your time or talent.

How should the mentor-mentee relationship be structured?

The mentor should know in advance how much time he or she is willing to devote to mentoring and then remain committed to that time investment. If you ask for too little or too much of his or her time, the mentor will be sure to let you know. (Note: If you are considering mentoring someone, but worry about the time investment, you may be interested to know that research shows effective mentoring can be done in as little as two hours a month.)
The mentor should clarify with you the extent of the guidance he or she is prepared to offer concerning personal issues, professional issues, and advice about balance between the two.

Make plans for how the relationship will progress and/or how you intend to make regular contact. You can send emails; do online chats, phone conversations, or personal meetings.
Keep all mentor-mentee sessions or conversations confidential. Both parties should feel free to speak frankly and openly about any issue without fear of repercussions or intentional/unintentional disclosure.

If you are really committed to mentoring or being mentored, but wonder how it will fit into your already busy life, consider these time savers.

Meet during mealtime… you have to eat anyway!

Schedule brief online chats to cover hot topics.

Ask about specific resources and research to assist you in the mentor’s absence.

As a mentee, the best way you can “thank” a mentor is by respecting his or her valuable time. Because mentors truly want to make a difference in your life and your nonprofit, internalize and apply what they teach you. There’s no greater reward than seeing "advice in action."

Also, do your part in maintaining the regular contact and following through on your own promises. Show your appreciation by giving back when you are ready to mentor someone else with their nonprofit.