Every mentor brings a unique perspective and communication style to the mentoring relationship. Some mentors connect regularly, while others take a more mentee-led approach and encourage outreach as needed. There is no single "right" way to mentor, and the support you provide is deeply valued by those you serve. At the same time, establishing clear expectations early can help mentees better understand how and when to connect, creating a stronger foundation for a successful relationship.

In a recent mentee satisfaction survey, one participant shared:

"I know each mentor approaches things differently, but I would have liked more info, maybe initially about how often I can contact my mentor or how often they would check in with me. My mentor always responds quickly to my texts, but I am sometimes hesitant to contact her for emotional support. Just unclear sometimes about expectations."

This feedback highlights an important aspect of successful mentoring relationships: setting expectations early. Even when a mentor is welcoming and responsive, a mentee may hesitate to reach out because they don't want to be a burden, are uncertain about their mentor's availability, or simply don't know what level of communication to expect.

A brief conversation during your first connection can help create clarity and comfort for both of you. Consider discussing:

• How often would you each like to communicate
• Preferred methods of communication (phone, text, email, etc.)
• Your general availability and typical response times
• Who will typically initiate contact, and whether periodic check-ins would be appreciated
• The types of support you are comfortable providing, as well as situations where other resources may be more appropriate

It's also helpful to revisit these expectations from time to time. A mentee's needs may change throughout their journey, and a simple check-in can go a long way.

Even a brief message such as, "Just wanted to see how you're doing and remind you that I'm here if you'd like to talk," can help a mentee feel supported. While not every mentoring relationship requires regular outreach, occasional check-ins can reassure mentees that reaching out is welcome.

Thank you for the compassion, understanding, and experience you share with our community.

CCF’s new CholangioPath app empowers patients to connect with a Patient Advocate, explore treatment information, receive reminders about educational events, and access new resources, making it easier to stay informed and supported throughout their journey. Be sure to download the app and share it with your mentees! You can find the information here for both iPhones and Androids.