Code of Conduct for Professional Engagement with Mentors

A mentor plays a valuable role in your professional development. To ensure a positive and productive mentoring relationship, please keep the following best practices in mind when interacting with your mentor or a business professional:

  • Schedule Meetings Appropriately: Initially, plan to schedule appointments for meetings. As your relationship develops, you may ask if it’s appropriate to reach out with questions outside of scheduled times.

  • Be Respectful Of Your Mentor's Time: Life happens, and sometimes plans change. If you need to cancel or reschedule a meeting, be sure to communicate with your mentor in advance—never miss a meeting without notifying them.

  • Choose Professional Meeting Locations: Whenever possible, meet in public or professional settings, such as campus meeting rooms. Avoid meeting in bars, residence halls, or private apartments.

  • Avoid Offering or Accepting Rides: Given the walkable nature of campus and the surrounding area, transportation should rarely be necessary. Politely decline if your mentor offers a ride, and avoid offering rides to your mentor.

  • Keep Interactions Professional: Focus meetings on professional development and skill-building. Avoid social or recreational outings such as going for drinks or hikes, and refrain from discussing topics such as partying or personal social activities.

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear professional or business casual attire when meeting in person or participating in virtual meetings.

  • Use Professional Greetings: Greet your mentor with a handshake rather than a hug.

  • Address Your Mentor Respectfully: Use your mentor’s first name unless they indicate a preference for a different form of address.

  • Seek Support from Campus Resources: For personal matters (e.g., dating, family, or financial issues), utilize appropriate on-campus support services rather than discussing them with your mentor.

  • Be Mindful of Social Media Etiquette: Treat social media interactions with your mentor as you would with a potential employer. Respect their preferences and maintain a professional tone in all communications.

These guidelines will help you build a respectful, professional, and mutually beneficial relationship with your mentor.