Choosing the "right" mentor is critical to one's long term success in life. Mentors assist us in determining what it takes to be successful in one's chosen vocation, academic program, or in reaching a short or long term goal. 

What are some important characteristics (strengths/weaknesses) you should look for in potential mentors? 

Some of the most important characteristics one should look when identifying or selecting a potential mentor include:

• Relevant Expertise or Knowledge
• Enthusiasm for Sharing That Expertise
• Have a respectful attitude
• Eagerness to Invest in Others
• Honest and giving Direct Feedback
• Reflective Listening and Empathy

Step-by-step explanation

• Relevant Expertise or Knowledge

When looking at a mentor, you have to look at his/ her relevant background. At times you may find that he/ she has worked on places you are interested in. They have to help you propel since they know the landscape; hence they have to advise you. Also, having a commonality enables you to build a good relationship with the mentor. They know what it takes to be successful.

• Enthusiasm for Sharing That Expertise

Mentors should have a passion and be willing to share some information with you. They have to give you the right information with great courage. The information provided has to be positive. It also has to contribute to your success. A mentor should be a person who is handing over knowledge. They should be open to you and happy when giving out the information. They should not be abusive or vague. Vagueness and abusiveness is a major weakness for a potential mentor.

• Have a respectful attitude

Mentors should not criticize people. They should have respect for the people to who they are giving the information. They should also not be harsh and nonconstructive. They should not mistreat anyone, even those who are close to you. This is because they will make an unproductive and frustrating partnership.

• Eagerness to Invest in Others

The process of mentoring is investing. A mentor is not paid to mentoring others. It is not a job. Mentors should be patient in how they guide the others since they do not expect immediate gains. They also do not give up easily. They believe in themselves and trust in the progress (Feldon et al., 2015).

• Honest and giving Direct Feedback

A good mentor knows how to deliver his/ her feedback to the junior. Finding a mentor who respects you is the key to your success. He/ she should be able to listen and give you honest feedback. He should not be shy when showing you the input, and also, he should be able to care about your feelings. He/ he has to learn your moods and give you a response.

• Reflective Listening and Empathy

Mentors have answers on their heads. They are leaned; hence they should be able to listen to you and give you good feedback. They should be asking you questions upon telling you what is expected to do. They should show that they are curious about what you are up to.