The example below is a guide to help Mentees start mentorship conversations confidently. These examples provide structure and assist Mentees in targeting and achieving goals during their mentorship relationship. 

1. Goal-Setting Questions

Use these during your first and second meetings to establish clarity and direction.

• Here are my top career goals — which do you recommend we prioritize?
• What do you think would be the most valuable area for me to focus on first?
• What does success typically look like for someone at my stage?
• How can I break my long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps?
• What would you suggest as milestones for the next 30, 60, and 90 days?
   

2. Career Path & Professional Development

Great for learning from your mentor’s lived experience.

• How did you get to where you are today?
• Were there pivotal decisions or experiences that shaped your path?
• What skills made the biggest difference early in your career?
• If you were in my position today, what would you focus on?
• What professional opportunities should I be paying attention to?
   

3. Skill-Building & Growth Questions

Perfect when working through your Personal Development Plan.

• I want to improve my skills in _______. Where should I start?
• What are the common mistakes you see people make in this area?
• How can I practice this skill in my current role?
• Do you have resources you recommend for building this competency?
• Could we role-play a situation where I can apply this skill?
   

4. Seeking Feedback

Aligned with mentorship best practices and recommended in professional toolkits.

• Based on what I’ve shared, what strengths do you think I can build on?
• What areas might hold me back unless I address them?
• What did I explain well — and what could I explain more clearly?
• How do you think others may perceive me in professional settings?
• If you were my manager or peer, what feedback would you give me?
   

5. Navigating Challenges

For blockers, frustrations, or big decisions.

• I’m facing a challenge with _______. What would you suggest I consider?
• Have you ever handled a similar situation?
• What are the potential pitfalls of the options I'm considering?
• Who else might I talk to or learn from?
• What would a successful outcome look like here?
   

6. Expanding Professional Visibility

This supports network-building — frequently cited as a top benefit of mentorship in professional research.

• Are there conferences, committees, or groups I should join?
• Is there someone in your network you think I should meet?
• Are there opportunities for me to contribute or volunteer?
• What types of projects help someone at my stage stand out
• What skills or experiences signal readiness for leadership roles?
   

7. Conversation Starters for Group Mentoring

Useful in cohorts or topic-based circles.

• What’s one challenge each of us is working through this month?
• Which skill is most relevant for our group right now?
• What’s something you’ve learned recently that surprised you?
• How do others manage work-life balance or burnout?
• What’s one thing you wish you knew earlier in your career?
   

8. Reflection & Accountability Questions

Keeps mentoring relationships productive and aligned.

• Here’s what I accomplished since our last meeting — anything I should refine?
• What should I prioritize before our next session?
• Where do you think I made the most progress?
• What should I focus on that I might be overlooking?
• Is there anything you want me to prepare for next time?
   

9. Closing/Wrap-Up Questions

For ending strong, transitioning into new goals, or closing the mentorship cycle.

• What final guidance would you offer as I continue this journey?
• How can I keep growing after our mentorship ends?
• Are there habits or routines you recommend I continue?
• Would you be open to staying in touch informally?
• What’s one thing I should commit to doing in the next 90 days?