How do you maintain a professional relationship with your mentor after they stop mentoring you?

Mentoring is a valuable way to learn from someone who has more experience, knowledge, or skills than you in a certain field. But what happens when the mentoring relationship ends? How do you keep in touch with your mentor without being awkward, needy, or unprofessional? Here are some tips to help you maintain a positive and respectful connection with your mentor after they stop mentoring you.

1 Appreciate their impact

The first thing you should do after your mentoring relationship ends is to express your gratitude to your mentor. Thank them for their time, advice, feedback, and support. Let them know how they have helped you grow, improve, or achieve your goals. You can send them a handwritten note, an email, a gift, or a testimonial. Be specific, sincere, and respectful. Don't forget to update them on your progress and achievements from time to time.

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Lisa Stryker, certified coach, speaker, trainer

Coach for high-achievers who want to become influential leaders without losing your empathy and authenticity. Stop overthinking and D.E.C.I.D.E. #UnderThinkIt 🍝 Foodie talk welcome.
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Don’t hesitate to reach out in gratitude months and years later! When you realize you’re following your mentor’s advice take the time to send them a quick note or give them a call and let them know that they’re still having impact in your life. It may feel a little awkward but remember it’s not about avoiding discomfort it’s about who you are. Trust the instinct and reach out. You will make their day, week maybe their month. It’s such a beautiful gift. Everyone wants to feel appreciated.

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Carolyn Jarecki, M.A., BCC, HSP

Your Life Coach on LI I School Guidance Coach | Author of “Your Best Kid in 21 Days” on Amazon | Follow me as I post my best coaching tips
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I so agree! Trust your gut or the inkling you have to reach out with a quick thank you- it can seem unnecessary but I was surprised at how my mentor was so happy to hear from me years later. She stated that she really needed the boost I gave her with my short note of gratitude. It made both of our days!

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2 Respect their boundaries

The second thing you should do is to respect your mentor's boundaries. Don't expect them to be available for you anytime, anywhere, or for any reason. Don't bombard them with messages, calls, or requests. Don't assume that they owe you anything or that you can take advantage of their network, resources, or reputation. Be mindful of their time, privacy, and preferences. Ask for their permission before you contact them, refer them, or mention them.

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3 Add value to them

The third thing you should do is to add value to your mentor. Don't just be a taker, be a giver. Think of ways you can help, support, or contribute to your mentor's goals, interests, or challenges. You can share relevant information, resources, or opportunities. You can offer your skills, feedback, or referrals. You can celebrate their successes, acknowledge their efforts, or endorse their work. Be generous, helpful, and proactive.

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Lisa Stryker, certified coach, speaker, trainer

Coach for high-achievers who want to become influential leaders without losing your empathy and authenticity. Stop overthinking and D.E.C.I.D.E. #UnderThinkIt 🍝 Foodie talk welcome.
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Reverse mentorship is a generous and satisfying way to show your gratitude. Do your mentor proud and don’t let self-doubt stand in your way. Offer to teach them something. Especially in cases where there’s an age or industry gap there are likely things that are easy for you that they’d love to learn. I’ve even traded recipes with mentors. Just be human.

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4 Stay in touch

The fourth thing you should do is to stay in touch with your mentor. Don't let the relationship fade away or become stale. Keep the communication open, friendly, and consistent. You can send them a message, an email, or a card on special occasions, such as birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries. You can invite them for a coffee, a lunch, or a catch-up call once in a while. You can follow them on social media, comment on their posts, or join their groups.

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5 Seek new mentors

The fifth thing you should do is to seek new mentors. Don't limit yourself to one mentor or one field. Expand your horizons and learn from different people with different perspectives, backgrounds, or expertise. You can find new mentors through your network, your industry, your community, or your hobbies. You can join mentoring programs, events, or platforms. You can ask for introductions, recommendations, or referrals.

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6 Be a mentor

The sixth thing you should do is to be a mentor. Don't keep your knowledge, skills, or experience to yourself. Share them with others who can benefit from your guidance, wisdom, or support. You can mentor someone in your team, your organization, your field, or your niche. You can volunteer for mentoring initiatives, causes, or organizations. You can offer your mentorship through your blog, your podcast, or your book. Be a role model, a leader, and a teacher.

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Carolyn Jarecki, M.A., BCC, HSP

Your Life Coach on LI I School Guidance Coach | Author of “Your Best Kid in 21 Days” on Amazon | Follow me as I post my best coaching tips
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Yes! There is plenty of success to share! The people who stand out as amazing are those who treat others as they would want to be treated. For example, I’ve learned so much along the road to having my own coaching business, and I openly share the roadblocks I hit and how to avoid them. A generous attitude draws like-minded people into your circle and makes your life better. Share your knowledge. Make time for others. Say, “Yes!” when given a chance to help another. The good you do will flow back to you.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you maintain a professional relationship with your mentor after they stop mentoring you?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Appreciate their impact

2 Respect their boundaries

3 Add value to them

4 Stay in touch

5 Seek new mentors

6 Be a mentor

7 Here’s what else to consider

Life Coaching

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How do you maintain a professional relationship with your mentor after they stop mentoring you?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Appreciate their impact

2 Respect their boundaries

3 Add value to them

4 Stay in touch

5 Seek new mentors

6 Be a mentor

7 Here’s what else to consider

Life Coaching

Rate this article

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