Building Partnerships for Learning
The authors define mentoring as, "that part of the leadership role that has learning (competence, skill, proficiency, know-how, wisdom) as its primary outcome."
Mentoring is not a solo performance, something that is done by one person to another. To be effective and lasting, it must be accomplished through a two-way relationship — the synchronized efforts of two people in a process of learning.
Mentoring as an art
Because it is about being real and honest, the authors say that mentoring is more art than science. It is about personal authenticity rather than role-based power. Fundamentally it is about both people growing and learning in a special partnership that is specifically focused on development. Both benefit.
The SAGE model
The mentoring process can be seen as having four stages, captured in the acronym SAGE. These four core competencies that comprise the critical steps of mentoring are as follows:
Surrendering - 'levelling the learning field' and making the relationship one free of any perception of power, authority or command. This requires humility from the mentor.
Accepting - creating a safe, non-toxic space for risk taking through unconditional positive regard. Because without risk there can be no experimentation, and without experimentation there can be no learning.
Gifting - the authors call this the 'Main Event" of mentoring; acts of generosity that bestow something of value without any expectation of return. So the mentor gifts wisdom, feedback, focus, advice, direction and the passion for learning. Equally, these gifts must be valued by the protégé or they are wasted.
Extending - nurturing independence in the one being mentored, so that they become a self-directed learner who is free and ultimately able to stretch beyond the confines of the mentoring relationship.
"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."Mahatma Gandhi