Prospective mentors are becoming more choosy. Since so many people want mentoring, and mentors only have a certain amount of time available, they’re not agreeing to mentor as quickly as they did a few years ago. In fact, many want to interview potential mentees before making a decision.

A prospective mentee asked us in a mentee training workshop last week: “Do you mean this is like a job interview?” Our answer: “Yes, in a way. It’s now a Mentors’ Market, meaning effective mentors often have many mentees from which to choose. You need to be seen as worth the effort. They want to know if you’ll be a good fit.”

Are you prepared? If not, here are some questions you may be asked. For each, we offer some BAD answers and a suggested GOOD response.

1. Why do you want a mentor?

Bad answers:
I keep hearing it’s good to have a mentor.
I’d like someone to tell me how to be successful.

Good answer:
This is kind of new to me, but from all I’ve read and seen in other people’s lives, I know that learning from a mentor can help me a lot…especially if I’m willing to commit and do some work on my own.

2. Why do you want ME as a mentor?

Bad answers:
I saw your name on a list.
Since you’re a vice president, I figured you’d be good.

Good answer:
I can think of three reasons: First, I’ve observed you in meetings, and I value your way of handling people. Second, I saw your name on the list of potentially interested mentors. Third, the fact you’re interviewing me like this means to me you want to be sure we’re a good fit…and that’s important to me, too.

3. What do you expect from this relationship?

Bad answers:
I’d like to meet or at least talk every day.
I hope you introduce me to some of your key contacts.
I picture following your lead and doing what you tell me to do.

Good answer:
I have a few ideas to explore but want to be flexible and sensitive to your busy schedule. It would be great if we could talk a couple of times a month in person or on the phone. I picture setting two or three goals to work on with your input…

4. How can I best help you?

Bad answers:
I don’t really know.
Since you’re successful, you must know how to mentor other people.

Good answer:
I know you’re busy and we’d want to make the time count. I learn well when I can talk about real problems I’m facing and then get frank reactions and suggestions. Maybe we could also talk about situations you handled or face now and how you approached them.

5. How will we know we’re successful?

Bad answers:
Good question. I have no idea. What do you think?
I think we’ll just know.

Good answer:
To me, our partnership will be a success if I make good progress toward my goals, we’re both satisfied with how the relationship is working out, and you get something positive out of the experience.

Remember, these are samples only, so give them your touch. Also, think of questions that YOU would ask if a potential mentee approached you. And practice your answers!

For more ideas on being an effective mentee, see our Archive and Products. Consider ordering the booklet, Strategies for Getting the Mentoring You Need.