| THINK TANK
Dr Kathy Murray
Role:
Education consultant and professional relationships coach
What has been your mentoring experience?
My career spans over 34 years. I have been a classroom teacher, university lecturer and education consultant. In that time I have mentored, advised and guided teacher aides, preservice teachers, graduates, new university lectures, teachers, business owners, leaders, and staff groups. During this time I have been on both sides of the mentoring fence as mentor and mentee.
What does mentoring mean to you?
Gently shaping and guiding skills and knowledge to help the mentee achieve their goals provides a sense of ownership, pride and confidence. At the beginning of the mentoring process, there is great value in connecting with the mentee to build a relationship of trust and support. It’s important to identify strengths and use them to overcome challenges. Mentoring through the use of modelling, offering suggestions, and providing encouragement gives the mentee a chance to show their personality and be true to themselves. Providing a safe culture where open communication is valued when encouraging people to ‘take a risk’ and try something different supports the change in the mentees skills and knowledge base. The aim is to provide the opportunity for the mentee to stretch their wings with the mentor being the safety net.
How have you benefited from mentoring?
Throughout my career I have moved into different work environments with different expectations, knowledge or skills were required. Some requirements I understood and some I didn’t see straight away. I have appreciated my mentors for giving me a ‘heads up’ on what is expected and helping me to be fully prepared for different situations. Modelling good practice and providing encouragement has helped to learn and develop. Mentors that have allowed me to be ‘me’, respected my existing skills and not micromanaged have been the best mentors for me.
What qualities would you look for in a mentor?
In my opinion, mentors should be calm, have the necessary skills and knowledge to support the growth of the mentee, be supportive and encouraging and not control freaks.
What would you suggest to ensure a successful mentoring experience?
Successful mentoring is a partnership. One where both parties want to be involved and feel comfortable with each other. Mutual respect, trust and an ability for the mentee and mentor to communicate clearly are essential for a smooth and enjoyable mentoring experience.