Customer Reviews

A Mentor's Companion

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In the introduction Larry Ambrose said that he wrote this book as a reference book and did not intend it to be read from cover to cover. In reading the entire book, though, I found it to be very enlightening. I'm sure that I will refer to it as a reference book many times.

A Mentor's Companion is written in a conversational manner -- with Chapters 2-6 beginning with an on-going mentoring scenario that unfolds throughout the chapters. After each scenario, a short chapter follows that delves deeper into the mentoring attributes touched on in the story. Larry Ambrose then shows notepads for the mentor's use and practical checklists that are incredibly helpful for anyone preparing to serve as a mentor. These notepads and checklists, I am sure, are the reference materials to which Mr. Ambrose refers in the Introduction. Each chapter's title page also has an insightful quote that sets the mood for the chapter.

Three of the main points of this book are the following:

1. The goal of true mentoring is the development of the mentee -- not necessarily the solution of specific problems. Larry Ambrose gives detailed examples of how to accomplish this task throughout the book.

2. True mentoring is a partnership -- in which both parties learn, grow, and discover more about themselves and their potential.

3. Honest feedback is extremely important. A mnemonic device shared in this book with regard to feedback is S.E.A.T. -- feedback should be Specific, Explicit, Achievable, and Timely. Larry Ambrose gives general guidelines to assist the mentor in framing feedback properly to benefit the mentee's (and the mentor's) development.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking at the mentoring process -- especially if looking into becoming a first-time mentor.

This book defines mentoring but the new "Revised Edition - 2010" is now available. ISBN 0977754073. Either version is great but the later version may be more relevant.

Good book. Quick and easy read. Would recommend for people interested in being a leader and or mentor to others in the workplace.

The 'Companion' is a valuable , user friendly tool. I was sold on the book after the introduction, foreword and Chapters 1 and 2, and immediately ordered a copy for all the senior managers in our business unit.

A Mentor's Companion offers a solution to two of the greatest challenges faced by organizations today - the cultivating of future leaders and the on-going, rapid development of the workforce.

Individuals have the opportunity to learn from the pioneers, Perrone-Ambrose Associates, through 'A Mentor's Companion'. This book is a must for all those concerned with creating a dignified and inclusive work environment.