Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This scenario helps you support a team member as they begin mentoring a new colleague. You’ll explore how to encourage effective communication, set expectations, and provide constructive feedback, all while helping them grow as a mentor.
You’ll practice:
- Guiding initial mentor-mentee meetings
- Encouraging open communication and feedback
- Helping set clear goals and expectations
- Supporting the mentor in their role
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Setting Up the Mentoring Relationship
Facilitator: "Hey Alex, I heard you’re going to be mentoring Jamie, our new developer. How are you feeling about it?"
Alex: "Excited, but a bit unsure where to start. I really want to do a good job."
Facilitator: "That’s great to hear. Let’s talk about getting started on the right foot. A good first step is to set clear expectations and goals for your mentoring sessions."
Alex: "Okay, so what should I focus on in our first meeting?"
Facilitator: "Start by getting to know Jamie’s goals and any challenges they’re facing. Talk about what you both expect from the mentoring relationship, and set some initial goals. It’s also helpful to agree on how you’ll communicate and check in regularly."
Scene 2: Facilitating Effective Communication
Facilitator: "Open communication will be key during your sessions. Encourage Jamie to share their thoughts and questions freely."
Alex: "Do you have tips on how to make them feel comfortable doing that?"
Facilitator: "Sure. Share your own experiences and challenges from when you were new. Be approachable and let Jamie know there’s no judgment here — asking questions is always welcome."
Alex: "That makes sense. But what if Jamie seems hesitant to speak up?"
Facilitator: "Try asking open-ended questions like, ‘What challenges are you facing this week?’ or ‘How can I support you better?’ Also, actively listen and acknowledge Jamie's insights to create a safe space."
Scene 3: Setting Goals and Monitoring Progress
Facilitator: "Let’s talk about goal setting. It’s important to have some concrete objectives to work towards. Have you thought about what those might be?"
Alex: "Jamie wants to improve their coding skills and get familiar with our project architecture."
Facilitator: "Great. Break those down into smaller, achievable goals. For example, you could start with a simple feature and then move to more complex tasks. Check in regularly to see how Jamie is progressing and adjust as needed."
Alex: "Got it. How do I provide feedback effectively?"
Facilitator: "Be specific and constructive. Highlight what Jamie is doing well, and offer suggestions for improvement. Always tie feedback to their goals. For instance, if Jamie successfully implements a feature, commend their approach and suggest ways to optimize the code."
Scene 4: Supporting Alex as a Mentor
Facilitator: "Lastly, remember that mentoring is also a learning experience for you. Reflect on each session — what went well, and what could be better?"
Alex: "That’s a good point. I’ll try to be open to feedback from Jamie too."
Facilitator: "Absolutely. Encourage mutual feedback. It will help both of you grow. And if you ever need advice or run into challenges, feel free to reach out."
Alex: "Thanks for the support. I feel more prepared to start mentoring Jamie now."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1: Jamie seems overwhelmed with information.
- Best Response: “Let’s prioritize and tackle one thing at a time. What would you like to focus on first?”
Challenge 2: Alex feels unsure about providing critical feedback.
- Best Response: “Frame it as an opportunity for growth. Use specific examples and offer solutions.”
Challenge 3: Jamie doesn’t seem engaged in the mentoring sessions.
- Best Response: “Ask open-ended questions to understand their perspective and adjust the approach if needed.”
Optional Curveball Mode
- Jamie misses a few mentoring sessions.
- Jamie expresses feeling lost and needing more support.
- Alex is uncertain about handling a technical question.
Practice addressing each situation with empathy and clear communication.
Reflection Checklist
Mentoring Setup
- Did I help Alex establish clear goals and expectations?
- Did I encourage open and effective communication?
Support and Feedback
- Did I guide Alex in providing constructive feedback?
- Did I help Alex reflect on their mentoring approach?
Growth and Learning
- Did I create an environment where both Alex and Jamie can learn and grow?
- Did I model effective mentoring behaviors?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading with too much information at once
- Failing to set clear goals or check progress
- Avoiding difficult conversations or feedback
- Neglecting mutual feedback and growth opportunities