Have meaningful conversations

Being a good conversationalist takes two skills: asking the right questions and actively listening. The quality of mentor-mentee conversations impacts the mentee's progress and development. Here are some tips on how to make them productive:

• Create a talk flow. Agree with a mentor to discuss what actions you have taken since your last meeting, what worked, what didn't work, what steps you could try next, and what your next objectives should be.
• Involve action. Having a conversation without taking action doesn't bring any results. Always define how you can apply new behaviors or techniques in practice.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions. Prepare a list of questions before the meeting. It'll help you stay on track and ask about things relevant to your goal.
• Create a comfortable environment. A quiet and private space is key to having a deep and honest conversation. If you have an online meeting, make sure your mentor can see and hear you well and check that your microphone and earphones work correctly.