Dear Dennie #1 - How much is TMI?

A monthly letter/column as written for & published also by Women in Transportation Services

Mentoring 101
Dear Dennie,

I am happy to explore being vulnerable and open with my mentor. But how much is too much information? 

TMI

Dear TMI,

While a good mentoring relationship requires honest conversation, mentoring is not therapy. Mentoring is about your career and your understanding of your values as they affect it.

Still, sharing personal information is something we do every day. It is how we build friendships, gain trust and, sometimes, get through a cocktail party.

There's a few questions you could consider to assess the situation:
1. Is the information supportive of the agenda or other people involved in the conversation?
2. Am I okay sharing or hearing this information?
3. What is the story being shared in support of?

There are at least two of you involved in every conversation. Talk with your mentoring partner to establish boundaries you can both support.

Now, ask me anything.... :-)

dennie

Managers vs. Mentors - difference in coaching

Be clear on the expectations in your mentoring relationship… and how they differ from a relationship with a manager.

Understand obligations and drivers. Make sure everyone is clear on what kind of coaching is involved.