Why did you want to become a mentor?

I wanted to become a mentor to ensure apprentices and the next generation of professionals reach their full potential. The world of work can be quiet daunting for apprentices therefore helping guide them through the first few years is really rewarding. After seeing a number of apprentices struggle to make the transition into the world of work I thought becoming a mentor would allow me to build strong relationships with apprentices to provide support and guidance when they need it. Whilst I had a lot of support early in my career I didn’t have a mentor who I could to turn to for advice or guidance, so being that person for others is really satisfying. 

    

   

Lewis Gunn, Principal Network Impact Manager, TFL

What have you learnt from being a mentor?

I have learnt that being able to help with what might seem like relatively small things can make a big difference to other people, particularly apprentices. You can never underestimate the importance of just being there for apprentices when they need to talk to someone, whether its for technical or personal advice. It has also taught me to take into account others point of view and empathise more when making decisions since becoming a mentor. I have also learnt that being able to provide an objective view on certain matters that you are not directly involved in can really help. I have actually sought out others opinions on some of my own tasks after seeing how much apprentices benefited from it.  

   

Why would you recommend becoming a mentor to others?

I would recommend becoming a mentor to others who get enjoyment from watching others develop and like a challenge. Mentoring might not be for everyone as it does carry with it additional responsibility and can take up a lot of your time but I find the rewards are worth it. It can can also help you develop as an individual as you learn good inter-personal skills that you can use day to day.

   

Why should people seek out a mentor?

If people want advice or guidance from someone who has been through similar situations then finding a mentor would be really worth while. Whilst they might not have all the answers they should be able to guide you in a way that lets you can find most of them yourself. As a mentor is usually someone who you are not directly involved with day to day it means their advice is impartial and can look at things from perspectives that are not always obvious. So if you find yourself struggling to look at things in different ways or cant see many options a mentor might be a good idea. 

   

What should organisations do to encourage mentors?

I have been lucky that my organisation actively encourages mentoring but I think raising awareness of the development benefits that mentoring brings to both the mentor and apprentice would encourage more people to get involved. Also just raising awareness of what mentor is and how it can help both parties involved in the process would see more people wanting to mentor. 

   

Find out more about becoming a mentor with CIHT

CIHT mentors provide advice, guidance and encouragement to their mentee on their journey to becoming professionally qualified. As a mentor, you will help the mentee identify the relevant knowledge and experience required to meet the required competence standard and advise on how this might be demonstrated in their submission and at interview

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If you are a CIHT member at Member grade we can help you find the right mentor to support you in achieving your professional qualifications.

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