How to Mentor Leadership for Women

In his book "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership," John C. Maxwell writes, "More than four out of five of all leaders that you ever meet will have emerged as leaders because of the impact made on them by established leaders who mentored them." In fact, many leadership and success experts agree that becoming an effective leader involves being mentored by proven leaders. Successful female leaders must be willing to mentor other female leaders.

• 1

  Identify an emerging female leader who would be receptive to being mentored by you. This woman might be someone who could possibly succeed you in your company or organization. She might be a novice business owner or one contemplating starting a business. She may be someone you already have a relationship with or someone recommended to you by a colleague or reputable associate.

• 2

  Establish a mentoring relationship with her. Explain your intentions and expectations for the relationship. Be specific but flexible as the relationship evolves and develops. Find out her mentoring needs. Know what she expects from the relationship.

• 3

  Spend time together in formal and informal situations, so you can get to know each other, as well as observe each other's leadership styles and interaction with others. When appropriate, shadow each other in professional situations. Discuss your observations.

• 4

  Discuss her goals and hold her accountable for achieving them. Provide guidance and assistance when neccessary. Introduce her to people who can help her achieve her leadership aspirations.

• 5

  Recommend leadership development strategies. Suggest books to read, conferences and workshops to attend, people to meet, and organizations to join. Encourage her to stay abreast of current events and discuss them with her.