“what mentors should consider if they want to build effective relationships with the entrepreneurs they’re working with.” Be Socratic. Expect nothing in return (you’ll be delighted with what you do get back). Be authentic/practice what you preach. Be direct. Tell the truth, however hard. Listen, too. The best mentor relationships eventually become two-way. Be responsive. Adopt at least one company every single year. Experience counts. Clearly separate opinion from fact. Hold information in confidence. Clearly commit to mentor or do not. Either is fine. Know what you don’t know. Say “I don’t
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