3.9 Coaching and Mentoring HO8
3.9 Coaching and Mentoring HO8
Army Family Team Building Level III
Coaching and Mentoring
Tools for Mentoring
There are two sets of tools for mentoring: sharing (offering insights and observations)
and challenging (encouraging one to think for themselves). Both sets of tools stimulate
thinking and guide individual development and performance.
Sharing –to pass on thoughts, insights and nuggets of wisdom
Sharing knowledge and experience: If you have knowledge to share, pass it on.
Let others learn from what you have learned, from your successes and mistakes.
Sharing observations: Pass on what you notice about the individual’s behavior and
work efforts; both difficulties or challenges and successes. Invite self-reflection as an
opportunity to learn from past performance.
Providing suggestions and advice: Help to stimulate thought and encourage two-
way conversations by giving suggestions and ideas.
Giving the big picture: Provide a sense of direction and a focus on the future by
offering an individual a greater perspective and understanding of his/her role.
Sharing messages: Impart pearls of wisdom and performance expectations in a
positive manner. Communicate a sense of importance.
Challenging – Testing one to think for him/herself
Tutoring with questions: Ask questions rather than give answers.
Asking for plans: Let another take the lead doing the legwork, developing ideas and
outlining a plan.
Asking for decisions and recommendations: Together evaluate situations and
explore options and consequences of actions. Engage in a good give-and-take discussion
and let the individual give recommendations for action.
Giving challenging assignments: Delegate by giving an opportunity to learn and gain
valuable experience. Provide support when necessary and follow up.