Developer: Growth Mindset

People exceptionally talented in the Developer theme recognize and cultivate the potential in others. They spot the signs of each small improvement and derive satisfaction from evidence of progress.

Gallup StrengthsFinder

TeamMates Mentoring Program’s mission statement is to “positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring.” This mission statement, at the core of our organization, is rooted in the theme of Developer. Rather than prescriptive, we function as a developmental mentoring program, which aims to build trust-based relationships. It is through these relationships that mentors are positioned to bring out the full potential in their mentee. Doing so, not only falls in line with our mission statement, but also honors the Developer in each of us.

According to Gallup, the primary impact of someone with Developer is “seeing the potential in people that is uninformed or inexperienced and investing in it.” As mentors, that is a role each and every one of us play. Spotting and inspiring the full potential in your mentee may seem like a daunting and overwhelming task, but I promise you it is not. Becoming a trusted friend to your mentee happens one meeting, one board game, and one conversation at a time.

One way to bring out the potential in your mentee would be to employ a growth mindset approach to your relationship. Research shows that our brain is like a muscle that needs to be worked on; when we use our brain, understanding that learning is never finished, we can expand the potential of our mind. By utilizing these same concepts with your mentee, you can help them to become the best student, friend, and person they can be. Check out our Mentor Resource Library here for resources on growth mindset!

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Strength Based Mentoring

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