Virtual Mentorship
Engage in Active Listening
The purposeful listening to and acknowledgment of what a young person is saying helps build trust, empathy, and understanding. Concentrate on what the young person is saying and ask reflective questions to clarify, and confirm that you understand. Provide feedback and help brain-storm, when appropriate.
Leverage Technology
While we know in-person communication is best, tools such as Skype, Google Hangouts and FaceTime are very effective in providing "face-to-face" contact when we can't physically be in the same room together.
Stay on Track
Keep notes of what was discussed and highlight any action items or goals to focus on next time. This allows a match to quickly pick up where they left off and keep momentum going. It also shows the youth that you are paying attention and focused on what is important to them.
Regular Contact
When mentoring remotely, mentors need to be intentional and consistent. Stay in regular contact by sending emails, text messages and/or calling. Make sure you establish "rules" about when, how often and how you will connect. It can also be helpful to schedule your contacts so that both you and your mentee, can plan accordingly.