19 answers

Asked Jan 10 5495 views

What are your top tips on building impactful relationships with mentors?

Finding mentors is a difficult task in and of its own, however maintaining and nurturing those relationships is in my opinion 10x more difficult.

How can I successfully build those relationships as a high school, but also assure that they are impactful?

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That's a challenging question. Try reaching out to someone nearby for help. Best of luck! Sean Alexander Jan 11

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19 answers

Updated Feb 06

Laura’s Answer

To make the most of mentorship:

- Know what you want help with. Are you looking for advice on decisions or help with a problem? Your goals can change as you get to know your mentor.

- It's okay to have more than one mentor. Choose people with different viewpoints to gain a broader perspective. A mentor who is different from you can help you see things in new ways without changing who you are. I once had a mentor who was very different to me. I didn't change who I was as a result of this mentorship, but it helped me to understand people who have different perspectives

- Remember, mentors sign up to be a mentor because they want to help you. This can make it easier to connect with them since they have your best interests at heart.

Best of luck in finding the right mentor to guide you!

Thank you very much, this is truly amazing! This put so, so much in perspective and I appreciate your wisdom. Farida Feb 06

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Updated Feb 06

Lauren’s Answer

Share a little about yourself and ask your mentor to do the same.
Be honest about what you’re hoping to gain from your relationship with your mentor. Are you looking to be connected with other in the same field, to broaden too experience to network further etc?
Be yourself
Over communicate. It’s so important to communicate your needs, your concerns your questions so your mention can be the best possible mentor to you. You always get out of any relationship what you put in it.

Thank you for taking the time to help, I appreciate it! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Jan 17

Vicky’s Answer

Hi there,
What is a great question. Like any other relationship, your mentor-mentee relationship requires time, commitment and a plan.
Make time to connect with your mentor, even for 15 minutes per week, face-to-face is ideal but any form of communication will suffice.
Always Make a plan (Even if you already have one)
Step 1: Set Clear Goals Together
Step 2: Create a Learning Agenda
Step 3: Implement and Report Back
Step 4: Seek Feedback and Course-Correct
Step 5: Express Gratitude and Plan for Continuity
As your mentor-mentee relationship progresses, you will get to know your mentor better, help them with small tasks or share articles about topics that may interest them. Don’t forget meaningful moments like birthdates, holidays etc.. A simple card will do. If they’ve done you a favor like writing a recommendation letter, a thank you note goes a long way ( a written one shows care and intention).
The most important thing I can share is to show your mentor that you are coachable. A mentor will invest time in coaching when you demonstrate that you can implement their advice and grow from it.
Always come prepared with a new topic or follow up questions.
Finally: Focus on being someone worth investing in, be curious, hardworking, receptive to feedback, and appreciative of guidance.

Vicky recommends the following next steps:

Be Curious

Thank you, this is absolutely amazing! You adding specific steps makes it so much clearer what I should do, and I will definitely be referring to your comment in the future. Farida Jan 17

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Updated Jan 11

Bill’s Answer

Well done for starting the process while you’re in high school. You’re already miles ahead of the majority. I’ve been on both sides of the mentor/mentee environment. The best advice I can give is to simply stay engaged with your mentor(s). Work with them to set boundaries out of the gate to determine the best way to interact and then come prepared to any meeting, call, etc. to maximize your time together. And take notes…there are notes from discussions that I had years ago that I still go back & read.

Determining impact is harder to answer (sorry). For me, there were instances where I didn’t realize the full impact of a mentor until years later. Know going in that there may be some things you talk about that may seem irrelevant but will have an impact in the future (thus the advice to take good notes).

Thank you greatly for your response, I appreciate it! Your tips are very useful, and your formatting is simple, easy to understand, but most important easy to follow along to. Farida Jan 11

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Updated Feb 06

Bianca’s Answer

Building impactful relationships with mentors is a valuable skill that can help you grow both personally and professionally. To start, be open and genuine by sharing your interests and goals honestly, which helps build trust. Take time to get to know your mentor by asking about their experiences and listening carefully, as showing interest in their journey makes the relationship more meaningful. Look for common ground or shared interests to connect more easily. It’s important to communicate regularly—whether through emails, messages, or casual meetings like grabbing coffee—to show that you value their guidance. Always express appreciation for their time and advice, letting them know how they’ve helped you, which encourages them to keep supporting you. Finally, be proactive by asking for advice, sharing your progress, and seeking feedback. Following these steps can help you build strong and meaningful relationships with mentors who can support your growth.

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Updated Jan 17

Matthew’s Answer

Be direct and pointed in what you are looking for and what you are trying to achieve; there is no shame in sharing all you want including your dream job; if you do not put it out there then it will never get momentum and a network to support it

Come to the mentoring conversation with data; what are your accomplishments, what you are doing to get to your next phase. Ask the mentor if there is something you can take on for them, so you are proving your worth and see how they can help connect you to other people to grow your network

Thank you for your encouragement and wonderful advice! This answers my questions perfectly, and was super helpful, I truly appreciate your time and effort! Farida Jan 17

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Updated Feb 06

Courtney’s Answer

Start by looking into local mentoring programs nearby to make new connections. If you find one you like, don't hesitate to introduce yourself and find shared interests, like hobbies or backgrounds, to build a bond. Creating a natural connection and building trust over time can lead to a great mentoring relationship.

If you feel comfortable after your first meeting, suggest meeting regularly, like once a week, to chat more. As you grow more at ease, you can start asking for advice and feedback on different topics.

If there aren't any programs available, think about reaching out to a teacher at your school who you feel comfortable talking to. They can be a trusted advisor when you need guidance. The key is to have a natural, safe, and trusting relationship.

Thank you so much for the time and effort you poured into your advice, this was super helpful! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Feb 06

Sabarinath’s Answer

A great mentor doesn't just give you answers they offer perspectives you haven't gained through your own experience yet. This is invaluable.
Look for someone with expertise in your field of interest. Choose someone whose career path or skills align with your goals. Identify specific goals before your conversations. Ask targeted questions that address your personal and career development. When a mentor shares insights that help you, acknowledge it specifically. Let them know what worked and how you applied their guidance

Thank you so much for responding to my question, I appreciate it! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Feb 06

Terri’s Answer

When you’re building a relationship with a mentor, think about it as a long-term connection, not just a one-time request for help. One example I often share is my daughter (she is now in college), who built a strong mentor relationship with a highschool teacher she trusted. She asked for guidance with college planning, but more importantly, she listened closely, followed through on the advice she was given, and checked back in with updates. She was also open to honest feedback, even when it wasn’t always what she hoped to hear, because she understood that growth comes from learning, not just praise. If you respect your mentor’s time, ask thoughtful questions, and show that you’re putting their guidance into action, you’ll build a relationship that’s not only supportive but truly impactful.

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Updated Jan 11

Tyler’s Answer

One of the best things to keep in mind when it comes to mentors are simply people who are willing to help out. They may help out a lot (which is what most people think of when they think of a mentor) or they may only need to show for a small part of your life.

One of my friends had a youth leader at church who he was close to. He didn't speak to him for many years but knew he sold commercial real estate.

My friend reached out to him after college and they ended up being partners. They hadn't talked in years and it didn't matter.

People are more willing to help than we give them credit for.

The best tips I can think of is being interested in what others do, show willingness to learn, and a willingness to do what they ask/tell us to do.

Best of luck!

Thank you very much for your response, I truly appreciate it! The story you shared interested me deeply, as I never knew mentorship could take said form. Farida Jan 11

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Updated Jan 11

Jazmin’s Answer

Breaking the ice can be hard at first but try to maintain a relaxing vibe around them make sure you're just as comfortable with them as they are with you.
But don't be too relaxed make sure you make it clear that you're not going to waste their time, they'll only give as much as they receive and vice versa. if one end is slacking or not putting it in the effort the other follows suit.
Both the students and the mentors have to be willing to be on the same page and find common ground.

Thank you for your response! This truly is amazing advice, and a fresher perspective on mentorship than what I've heard in my daily life. Farida Jan 11

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Updated Jan 11

Karen’s Answer

Your question is very insightful, and says a lot about your ambition and chances for great success!

I've been a mentor to a number of people, including five-year-old twins and a woman in prison. The little girls had no idea why I kept coming to see them each week until we talked about how I saw them as friends and liked doing things with them. Their Mother wanted them to be able to experience life outside of their small apartment. I'm happy to say these girls are now 21, and I'm still in contact with them. They moved across the country, served in the armed forces, went to college, and are wonderful, faith-filled young adults. The main thing you have to do is to be yourself, be willing to share what you're feeling, and always show up. Let them know you appreciate their time and support.

My mentee, who had been in prison for two years without ever having a visitor, was happy to have a connection to the outside world. She made me want to come back and visit her each month because she made me feel like I was important to her.

I have no doubt you will enjoy your relationship without having to work hard at it, and the results will be amazing.

With every good wish and many blessings!

Karen

Thank you very much for responding to my question! I have truly never enjoyed reading a reply to one of my questions as much as I enjoyed reading yours, and I found myself truly interested in everything you had to say. Your advice put a lot in perspective for me, and I appreciate the time you took to form such a beautiful, thoughtful response! Farida Jan 11

Farida, I greatly appreciate your response! Karen Kitchel Jan 11

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Updated Feb 06

Shannon’s Answer

This is a great question to be asking as early as high school, before navigating college and eventually the workforce. Much like building a resume or a skill set, developing impactful relationships with mentors is something that evolves over time, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away.

One important thing to remember is that you will likely have many mentors throughout your life, often for different stages or areas of growth. The most impactful mentorships happen when you own the relationship. That means being intentional about what you want to learn and helping set expectations early—whether that looks like monthly check-ins, more frequent conversations at the beginning, or less frequent touchpoints as time goes on.

Impact also comes from showing up prepared and engaged. Come with questions, share updates, follow up on advice, and be open to feedback. Over time, mentorship becomes less about having all the answers and more about learning how to think, adapt, and grow.

On a personal note, I’ve had many mentors throughout my career, and some of the mentors I connected with in high school are still around today. While they may now support me more from the sidelines, I can clearly see how their early guidance helped shape both my career and life path.

Thank you so much for the advice, I greatly appreciate it and found your advice extremely helpful! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Feb 06

Tian’s Answer

Great question, Farida!

Good mentor relationships are built on curiosity, reliability, and gratitude. This is true whether you're in high school, university, or the work world.

Ask thoughtful questions, really listen, and try the advice you’re given. Showing up on time and prepared for any interaction with your mentor will go a long way.

Thank you so much for giving me advice, I greatly appreciate it! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Jan 12

Gail’s Answer

It's great that you're thinking about having a mentor in high school. A mentor relationship can be valuable for both the mentor and the mentee. Sometimes, we meet weekly or every other week if the mentee has a specific goal to work on. Other times, we might only meet once a month or every three months if there's no urgent goal, but we still want to stay in touch and share experiences. Always having a clear goal or purpose for the mentoring relationship can make it more meaningful.

Thank you, this was super helpful! I greatly appreciate your time, effort, and support. Farida Jan 12

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Updated Feb 06

Alixandra’s Answer

The best advice I can give is to be true to yourself. Let others see who you are, not just at work but in all aspects of life. This helps build strong connections and opens up good communication, allowing you to grow together.

Thanks for your encouragement! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Feb 06

Eunice’s Answer

A mentor is someone who supports you on your journey. To make the most of this, be open about what you need and stay true to yourself. Choose a mentor who fits your style and with whom you feel a connection. Sometimes, a mentor is assigned to you, and that's fine too. It gives you a chance to learn what works for you and expand your idea of what a mentor can be.

Once you've found your mentor, be yourself. Be open, honest, and engaged. Participate actively in discussions so the relationship is a two-way street. Both you and your mentor should be committed for the mentorship to be successful.

I truly loved reading this, thank you so much for your advice! Farida Feb 06

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Updated Jan 11

Steward "Tony"’s Answer

Join Leadership and/or Speaking Groups to develop those skills. Within these groups many actually love to mentor younger persons who look to grow and become leaders within their own respective fields. Yes you can get mentors for hire, but it's the ones who see your potensial who value the time to guide you. You will soon become the mentor. yourself.

Thank you, this is truly really helpful advice! I greatly appreciate your time and effort, and found motivation within your response. Farida Jan 11

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Updated Feb 06

Ramsha’s Answer

Mentorship is important for both career and personal growth. To make the most of it, be yourself and open to feedback. Build a strong relationship with your mentor by aligning your values with theirs and interacting respectfully. Share your thoughts and see how they respond. If you can't meet often, update them via email about your goals and progress. Use them as a sounding board, but be mindful not to overwhelm them with too many questions. Respect their time and come prepared with key points to discuss. Consistency and genuine effort matter more than perfection. If you can, mentor others too; it will help you become a better mentee.

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