As you know, women business owners make a significant contribution to the economic health of our nation and communities. And their contributions continue to rise as more women become entrepreneurs and existing women-owned businesses expand. The answer is mentoring . Mentoring is a term historically used to describe a teacher-student relationship. Mentoring relationships are particularly helpful during a period of transition such as a new business launch, new product introduction or business expansion.
Mentors are wise and trusted counselors for prot g s.
A mentor's knowledge, experience, tenacity and skills offer the growing entrepreneur guidance, advice and training. However, while a mentor can steer a prot g in the right direction to reach her potential, prot g s must still rely upon themselves to succeed. The following chart outlines a few roles for the mentor, the prot g and for the mentor and prot g together. Create a positive counseling relationship and climate of open communication. Help prot g identify problems and solutions.