You want to improve your interpersonal communication skills. What can you do to be a better mentee?

1 Set clear goals

Before you start a mentorship, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve from it. What are your learning objectives, career aspirations, and personal development needs? How can your mentor help you with them? Communicate your goals to your mentor and ask for their input and expectations. This will help you establish a common purpose, align your efforts, and measure your progress.

2 Listen actively

One of the most important skills for any communication is listening. As a mentee, you should listen actively to your mentor, which means paying attention, showing interest, asking questions, and reflecting on what they say. Listening actively will help you understand your mentor's perspective, learn from their experience, and demonstrate respect and appreciation. It will also help you avoid misunderstandings, clarify doubts, and seek feedback.

3 Share openly

Another key skill for effective communication is sharing. As a mentee, you should share openly with your mentor, which means expressing your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and challenges. Sharing openly will help you build trust, rapport, and empathy with your mentor, who can offer you advice, support, and encouragement. It will also help you gain insight, perspective, and feedback on your own situation, performance, and development.

4 Give feedback

Feedback is essential for learning and improvement in any relationship. As a mentee, you should give feedback to your mentor, which means acknowledging their efforts, appreciating their contributions, and suggesting areas for improvement. Giving feedback will help you strengthen your bond, show gratitude, and encourage mutual growth. It will also help you practice your communication skills, such as being specific, constructive, and respectful.

5 Seek opportunities

A mentorship is an opportunity for you to learn, grow, and network. As a mentee, you should seek opportunities to enhance your communication skills and your relationship with your mentor. For example, you can ask your mentor to introduce you to other professionals in your field, invite you to events or projects that interest you, or challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. Seeking opportunities will help you expand your horizons, gain exposure, and add value.