Who Should be a Mentor?

To be an effective mentor we must, at a minimum, have a heightened awareness or sensitivity to the needs of others, and be willing to pause and listen. Formal mentoring requires much more. It may mean inconveniences; it may take our time away from other things, and it definitely will require commitment. We should carefully evaluate whether this type of activity will cause significant stress or loss in other areas and whether we are emotionally and psychologically prepared.

If the mentor’s resources and the cadet’s needs are low or only require occasional help, then short-term mentoring might be advisable. On the other hand, if the cadet’s needs are high and exceed the capabilities, time, or resources of the mentor, then referral to a more appropriate resource is necessary.

This is a critical point: Once we determine that an individual’s needs are beyond our capabilities or pose a potential risk to the safety of the cadet or others, the individual must be referred. Individuals at risk for suicidal or homicidal behavior should be brought to the immediate attention of the commander.

Finally, the cadet must also be a willing participant. If a capable mentor is trying to work with an unwilling cadet, or the needs of the cadet would overwhelm the mentor, mentoring is not advised.