There is no doubt in your mind that the mentor in your life has earned something very special for all that they have done. In addition to being a coach, a boss, a teacher, or a parent, they have earned a lot more. A good gift for a mentor needs to reflect your appreciation of the expertise, guidance, and invaluable lessons they have imparted to you over the years.
It’s time to say thank them in a unique way. Below, discover ways to express your gratitude and know the great gift ideas for mentors.
Reasons why you must gift your mentor
You can thank your mentor with a gift for a number of reasons.
- The first reason is to show your gratitude. The giving of a gift can be a tangible way of showing your appreciation for your mentor’s support and guidance.
- Creating a positive and memorable experience for both mentors and mentees through thoughtful gifts! A thoughtful gift can strengthen the relationship between a mentor and a mentee.
- Getting the mentors a gift as a way of thanking them for their time and dedication to helping the mentee succeed and grow is also one of the ways of thanking the mentors.
- Encouraging mentees to do well! Giving a gift can show mentors how far mentees have come and how much they have learned from their mentors.
- You can give back to the mentor by giving them a gift as a thank you for their support.
- Rewarding mentors with gifts is a way to show appreciation for their professional and personal contributions.
When to thank your mentor?
To be honest we recommend thanking your mentor or mentee anytime you feel like it for all that they have done and for sharing their valuable experiences with you! It can take place before, after, or during your daily or weekly sessions-or even when you take a break between sessions. Here are some examples.
During intervals
Consider approaching them during their lunch break, asking if they would be able to spare some time, and thank them by treating them to a small gift.
When you reach a milestone in your career:
Once you’ve achieved your goal or milestone and your mentor has helped you reach it, send your mentor a thank you message or letter. As a result, you will show your appreciation for the contribution and role your mentor played in your life.
If there is a mentor-specific day:
It is not uncommon for mentors to be recognized on special days. One such day is national mentoring day. In these days, mentees can show their appreciation for everything their mentor does for them.
On mentoring anniversaries:
No matter how long it’s been since you first began your mentoring relationship or how long it’s been since you last spoke with your mentor, it’s always a good idea to express your gratitude by giving the suitable and best gift for mentor.
Upon completion of the mentoring relationship:
I think this is the most important day to say thanks out of all the days to do so. The end of a mentoring relationship should be marked by expressions of appreciation and thanks.
In simple words, the answer is not generalizable. You have to take responsibility and seize opportunities whenever they arise, or maybe even create opportunities. However, rest assured that you will be appreciated for your actions and thank yourself later that you took these steps. There is no such thing as bad timing. If you miss an opportunity, you can always try again. As long as your message is sincere, your mentor will appreciate it regardless of the time it is sent.
How to honor your mentors?
Despite the fact that a handwritten note is the best way to thank someone, there are other ways to express your appreciation. Sending a floral arrangement or a gift card can be an appropriate way to honor your mentor if you do not want to meet in person. It would also be nice to take them out for lunch or coffee (or even dinner if you have time).
In addition to writing them a letter, you may also wish to thank them for all the guidance and support they have provided over the years. There are several ways you can try to reach them: you could send them an email with LinkedIn or you could contact them directly on their personal accounts; you might type up a formal letter, or you might write an article (which I did).
What is the best gift to give my mentor?
Choosing a gift that will be meaningful to your mentor is important when preparing to thank them. Ask yourself these questions to help you determine what is best for them:
- How does my mentor differ from others?
- Do they have a birthday coming up?
- How can I get them something that fits their lifestyle and personality?
- Do I have enough time to give the gift before the meeting or event?
Other effective ways:
Publicly thanking your mentor is a great way to show your appreciation. Give your mentor a shout-out on LinkedIn or Facebook groups you’re part of. Give that mentor a compliment so others can see the benefits you have gained from working with them. For your mentor, this accomplishes a couple of things.
- By thanking your mentor, you give them great gratification and encourage them to mentor more people.
- There is a possibility that a reader of your note will be inspired to contact the mentor and ask for advice.
By reciprocating and deferring to me, you have basically continued this circle of respect and gratitude.
Wrapping up!
In conclusion, any gift you choose should be able to convey your appreciation and gratitude to the company or person who has provided you with guidance, support, and mentoring during this period of time. Having a mentor’s apt gift in mind is the perfect way to express your gratitude for all they’ve done for you.