Key Qualities of a Generation Y Peer Mentor

  • a role model – someone who leads by example
  • honesty
  • good communication skills: the ability to listen, empathise, understand, question, clarify and give constructive feedback
  • understand the importance of writing down and setting specific, measurable, intentional, limited, extending and realistic (S.M.I.L.E.R.) goals, whilst making goal-getting a fun experience
  • a sincere interest in the well-being of their students
  • the ability to motivate and inspire
  • the desire to make a positive difference in another’s life
  • patience
  • sound management of time skills
  • being approachable, tolerant, flexible and open-minded
  • being a positive team member
  • empathy i.e. the willingness to put oneself in another’s shoes, trying to see things from their perspective
  • respect (self-respect and respect for others)
  • knowing one’s limitations