How to mentor new leaders in management positions
Written by: Genevieve Carlton, Edited by: Valerie Black
Published: April 18, 2025
Mentoring can be particularly valuable for those new to management roles. As new managers develop their leadership skills, mentors can guide them through the process –– which can pay off for the entire team.
Read our guide to understand the challenges new leaders face and how to be a more supportive mentor.
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Why do new leaders need mentors?
Moving into a leadership role comes with many changes. Taking on supervisory responsibilities and the added pressure of reporting to executives can make for a difficult transition for some professionals.
Mentoring new leaders gives organizations a valuable opportunity to maximize their employees' performance while improving job satisfaction and performance.
Mentors can share their experiences with new leaders, guiding them through the challenges they may face. By providing individualized support, mentorship programs can minimize mistakes and help managers strengthen their skills. New leaders may also feel more confident in their role as managers and leaders with the support of a mentor.
How does mentorship impact a team's success?
Mentorship can have a large impact on a team's success. From developing the communication skills that new managers need to oversee direct reports to giving new leaders the tools they need to report to upper management, mentoring new leaders can pay off. When managers have the skills necessary for success, the entire team benefits.
Teams with confident leaders also perform better. A manager with a direct report who fails to meet expectations can turn to their mentor for guidance. Mentors can reinforce company values while developing leadership skills in their mentees –– and mentors also benefit from leveraging their expertise.
Tips for mentoring new leaders in management positions
What are some of the most effective approaches to mentoring employees who are new to management positions? Here are some tips:
Tip 1: Lean into structure
Effective mentorship requires organizational support. Whether through one-on-ones, groups, or other formats, mentorship programs should have regular check-ins and milestones. Formal mentorship programs allow organizations to reward mentors and mentees for their efforts.
Tip 2: Set SMART goals
Mentors can model good leadership by setting SMART goals with their mentees –– that is, goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Managers should create realistic milestones for their teams and regularly meet with mentees to track their progress toward these SMART goals.
Tip 3: Provide detailed feedback
Offering regular, detailed feedback gives mentees the tools they need to develop leadership skills and learn from their mentors. Focus feedback on skills that the mentor or mentee has identified as growth areas. Ongoing support also cultivates a culture of continuous learning.
Tip 4: Measure effectiveness
It's important to evaluate mentor program effectiveness on both an individual and programmatic level. Organizations can do this by measuring skill development and satisfaction for individual mentees. Be sure to solicit mentee feedback on the program's impact to identify areas for improvement.
Tip 5: Celebrate growth
Companies should celebrate growth as new leaders work with mentors. For example, when mentees complete SMART goals, mentors can note this on performance reports. Organizations may also create incentive programs tied to mentorship to help motivate mentees and help them feel valued. Celebrating successes can lead to improved employee satisfaction and retention.