A mentor is often defined as someone, who provides guidance, motivation and support in circumstances when exploration and assessed risk-taking requires additional discussions. Generally, this could include analyses of various options / routes, setting goals and identifying resources, evaluating next steps.

Mentors have also been referred to as a Learning Consultant, Coach, Counsellor, Advisor, Confidant.

In 2004, David Clutterbuck, an academic who studied mentoring relationships, introduced the following acronym to describe the role of a mentor :

• Manage the relationship
• Encourage
• Nurture
• Teach
• Offer mutual respect
• Respond to the learner's needs

I will actively and objectively listen, ask questions to invite the client to review the situation from a number of perspectives and be solution-focussed in my approach.

Additionally, I will share feedback, knowledge and expertise to assist in increasing learning and contributes to learning and skill development. 

The purpose of mentoring is to assist the client in succeeding and with their growth and development, so that they can better achieve their goals.