Communicating Effectively
The ability to interact and communicate effectively is essential to establishing and maintaining an effective mentoring relationship.
Assertive Communication
Assertive Communication is clear, direct and respectful. Both mentors and mentees benefit from speaking assertively which supports getting their needs met and maintains healthy relationships
Resources:
- : Mayo Clinic article on recognizing and learning assertive communication and behavior
- : Brochure by The University of Illinois Counseling Center addressing racial and cultural factors affecting the use and interpretation of assertive behavior.
- : NIH OITE primer on assertive communication and techniques
Feedback
Feedback provides you the opportunity to acknowledge your mentee’s strengths and support your mentee to work on areas of weakness.
Resources:
- : Article covering the main points of giving feedback effectively
- : Article from INSIDESEL Social & Emotional Learning reviewing current knowledge and best practice in providing feedback within educational settings
- : Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen, Penguin, March 31, 2015 (Book)
Listen Actively
At the heart of active listening is the ability to stay focused on the speaker with a desire to comprehend their situation, respond thoughtfully, and offer support as needed which together builds trust.
Resources:
- : Guide on active listening produced by BCM’s Ombuds
- : Produced from BCM Ombuds’ guide Listen Actively: To Be Heard, Listen First
- : Article covering the main points of practicing active listening
Managing Conflict
Being able to address situations by managing our emotions and speaking assertively helps when having challenging conversations and addressing conflict.
- : Guide to navigating tough issues and conflict produced by BCM’s Ombuds
- : Produced from BCM Ombuds’ guide Speak Frankly: A Straightforward Approach to Tackle Tough Issues
- : Guide with tips on managing emotions during conflict produced by BCM’s Ombuds
- : Produced from BCM Ombuds’ guide Manage Emotions: Seven Tips
- . Third Edition. Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, and Emily Gregory, McGraw Hill, October 21, 2021 (Book)