Becoming a Mentor

Why do people become mentors?

Mentors are experienced professionals – typically from middle, senior and executive management – who choose to give their time to support others. Often inspired by the guidance they received earlier in their own careers, they are motivated by a desire to give back and help others succeed.

Benefits of being a mentor include:

Sharing their knowledge, expertise and experience
Practicing and developing their coaching and mentoring skills, training provided to support mentor
Opportunity to gain a better understanding of people development
Contributing to the corporate social responsibility work of your organisation
Networking with like-minded people in the sector

What we look for in a Mentor

Experience of managing others is valuable; however, it is just as important that a mentor is motivated to guide and develop people, alongside a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all their interactions.

We recognise that great mentors come in many forms. The skills and qualities listed below are not exhaustive, and no one is expected to demonstrate them all. Retired and practising housing, housing-related, and third-sector professionals are all welcome to apply.

Skills we seek in mentors include: relationship-building; active listening; effective questioning; sensitively challenging; identifying options; setting clear boundaries and expectations; clarifying objectives; maintaining focus; action planning; creativity; and reflective practice. The ability to introduce mentees to wider networks and connections is also highly valued.

Qualities mentees value in effective mentors include: offering encouragement; being open and honest; empowering mentees to lead sessions; creating a confidential and trusting space; showing genuine interest; and remaining objective while supporting self-reflection.

Hear from our Mentors

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To apply to become a mentor.