Giving (and Receiving) Feedback

Mentees want to receive honest, candid feedback from their mentor. Equally important is the feedback mentees can offer to mentors. Engaging in reciprocal and on-going feedback is a vital component of the partnership.

Effective feedback:

• Is offered in a timely manner
• Focuses on specific behaviors
• Acknowledges outside factors that may contribute
• Emphasizes actions, solutions or strategies

Effective Feedback from Mentee:

• Whether the advice or guidance you offered was beneficial and solved an issue
• Whether the mentor communication style and/or actions facilitate a positive mentoring experience
• Whether the mentor communication style and/or actions create challenges to a positive mentoring experience

Effective Feedback to Mentee:

• Mentee strengths and assets
• Areas for growth, development and enhancement
• Harmful behaviors or attitudes
• Observations on how your mentee may be perceived by others