What does it take to be a Mentor?
ACP mentorships do not require any advanced skills or knowledge, just a familiarity with, and commitment to the mentoring process. Below, we offer a few suggestions on how to be a good Mentor:
Be Understanding. Veterans have given a lot of themselves, and they face a variety of challenges during their transition. Even if you are unaware of all these challenges, be sensitive to the fact that they exist. Try not to take offense if your Protégé seems distracted at times, and always make your best effort to provide support. ACP staff is always available to respond to any questions or concerns you may have and offer a variety of Mentoring Resources.
Be Flexible. Veterans do not get to choose the length or location of their deployments, nor do they get to choose the challenges they must deal with afterward. We ask you to be similarly flexible. Whether your Protégé is across the street or on another continent, make your best effort to recognize their service, understand their challenges, and work with them to achieve their goals.
Be Open. Mentorships based on trust and respect almost always succeed. You do not have to reveal the details of your personal life, but you should offer honest answers and advice. That includes telling your Protégé when you do not have the right answer or time to answer. Consider involving colleagues, friends, and family in the mentoring process, and be sure to promptly tell ACP if you are too busy to continue. We respect your time.
Ideally a Mentor has at least 8 years of professional experience and is 35 or older as ACP staff aim to introduce Protégés to a Mentor who is a career step or two ahead of them.
Be aware that Protégés in the program come from diverse military backgrounds. Some joined the military straight out of high school and are now looking for their first job or going to school. Some are reservists who have had civilian careers but were called back to active duty or are looking to transition careers. And some are retirees with over twenty years of service who are looking to start a new career.
ACP staff asks all prospective Mentors what kind of Protégé they feel most comfortable working with to offer career guidance.
