The dictionary says “a trusted advisor and guide”, that’s what a mentor is. But why are we suddenly discussing mentors and their meaning in the dictionary here? The reason is none other than the fact that the concept of mentoring is highly relevant in the field of MBAs. But, what is it about?
Well, a mentor is that world-savvy and experienced person who takes you under his wings and guides you in your endeavors.
The concept of tutoring in MBA programs is innovative and immensely useful. During your MBA days, your mentor is ideally your friend, philosopher, and guide. He is the one who will be in charge of shaping your future in the institution, and eventually in your future professional life. So when checking out the MBA school ranking before joining a school, find out if the school makes effective use of the concept of mentoring as it will be of great help.
This mentoring program matches you with an experienced person in your own field, which should ideally also be your target field. This complements an aspiring MBA with all the essential experience and insights into what you aspire to and what you should expect to face and govern.
The concept of mentoring in MBA is based on a few guiding principles around mentors, students, as well as the overall operation of the mentoring program.
The students: The respectful and enriching interaction with the corporate world increases the student’s knowledge and opens a panorama of career opportunities through the right contacts in front of him. The student is also expected to be goal oriented to fit into the program. Appropriate counseling on the benefits of the program and the expectations of the student prior to the program must also be provided to the student.
The mentors: This program acts as an opportunity for him to pass on the legacy of knowledge and wisdom from one corporate generation to another corporate generation. It also gives you much-needed simulation for leadership skills development. The mentor should also receive some guidance as to what his duties are and how he is expected to be an integral part in shaping an individual’s future in the corporate world.
General guidelines: The first and main criterion for choosing a mentoring program, in fact, when choosing a mentor, is to categorically choose two people, the mentor and the student, on the basis of knowledge, communication and experience on the part of the mentor; field of interest, respectful attitude towards the orientation, motivation and appetite for knowledge on the part of the student; and most importantly, the consent of both that the match between the mentor and the student is adjusted to their satisfaction and compatibility.
Therefore, the concept of mentoring could ideally be termed as a direct link between the future MBA and the business community and as a result should be utilized to its fullest.