As we wrap up our focus on mentorship this September, I want to address one of the most important aspects of a mentor–mentee relationship: values. In my opinion, values are the guiding principles, beliefs, and standards that shape how a person thinks, makes decisions, and lives their life. They act as an internal compass, influencing priorities, behaviors, and long-term goals.
🔑 Ways to Identify a Mentor’s Values
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Ask Direct but Open Questions
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“What principles guide your leadership style?”
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“What do you expect from people you work with?”
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“When you face tough decisions, what factors matter most?”
Their answers will reveal whether they prioritize integrity, results, teamwork, service, or something else.
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Pay Attention to Their Track Record
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How do they talk about past successes and failures?
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Do they highlight collaboration, innovation, resilience, or recognition?
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Patterns in their stories show what they value most.
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Observe How They Treat Others
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Do they respect people at every level of the organization?
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Are they generous with credit and constructive with feedback?
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Respect, humility, and fairness show up most clearly in day-to-day interactions.
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Listen for “Why” Behind Advice
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A mentor who values growth will encourage taking risks and learning.
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A mentor who values stability might prioritize consistency and discipline.
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Their reasoning is as important as the advice itself.
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See How They Spend Their Time
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Mentors who carve out time for teaching and developing others value service and giving back.
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Those who prioritize networking may value influence and connection.
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Notice How They Handle Challenges
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Do they stay calm and ethical under pressure?
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Do they problem-solve collaboratively or take control?
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Crisis moments are where values surface most clearly.
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✅ Red Flags in Mentor Values
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Talking more about status than substance.
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Using people rather than uplifting them.
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Overpromising and underdelivering.
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Inconsistent behavior (saying one thing, doing another).
👉 A good mentor’s values should inspire trust, align with your non-negotiables (like integrity, respect, and honesty), and push you to grow in meaningful ways.
Review "Establishing Core Values in a Mentor Relationship" (September 15)"
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