Supporting Our Own: A Manual for ESP Mentoring Programs

Who Should Be A Mentee?

A mentee is any education support professional who seeks support and guidance on the job. A mentee and mentor do not necessarily need to perform the same job function, although that is usually the case. The prospective mentee identifies his or her goals and objectives and the program identifies the most appropriate mentor to be the guide, tutor, or coach.

Experience and Job Credentials

The typical mentee is a new hire during a probationary period or the first year of employment. However, experienced ESP can benefit from a mentoring program as well. They may need help in their current position or there may be new things they want to learn. They may have been transferred to a new district or school within a district where the culture and procedures are different from those of their old job. There will be differences in mentoring programs for brand-new employees and for those who are only new to the location. These differences will be identified in the needs assessment and the identification of goals and objectives jointly by the mentor and mentee.

Personal Characteristics

The list of personal characteristics for mentees is much the same as the one for mentors. A successful mentee...

• Is motivated, reliable, and patient.
• Is an attentive listener and intelligent questioner.
• Is flexible and has a sense of humor.
• Realistically appraises his/her strengths and weaknesses.
• Can handle constructive feedback and accept honest praise.
• Is committed to the purpose and process of mentoring.
• Can work collectively and collaboratively.
• Is enthusiastic about his or her job and future possibilities.
• Can acknowledge when the mentoring relationship isn’t working, and is willing to ask for help or a change.

Go to the next section: "What are the responsibilities of Mentors and Mentees?"