Getting to Know You Questions
What’s a good way to start a conversation with your mentee?
Ask a simple question like “What’s your favorite class so far?”
What’s one way to find something in common with your mentee?
Ask, “What kind of music or shows do you like?”
What’s one way to show you’re listening?
Look at the person and nod while they’re talking.
What’s a follow-up question?
A question you ask based on something the other person just said.
What does empathy mean?
Understanding how someone else feels.
Name a question you can ask to learn about someone’s hobbies.
“What do you like to do after school?”
You both like video games. What could you say next?
“Cool! What games do you usually play?”
What should you avoid doing when someone is talking?
Don’t interrupt or talk over them.
Your mentee says they love animals. What’s a follow-up question?
“Do you have any pets?”
Your mentee says they had a bad day. What’s something kind you can say?
“That stinks. Want to talk about it?”
Ask something about school that isn’t about classwork.
“Do you go to any clubs or events here?”
Your mentee says they like basketball. What’s a follow-up?
“Do you play on a team, or just for fun?”
Your mentee is talking about their weekend. How do you show interest?
Say, “That sounds fun!” or ask a follow-up question like “Where did you go?”
Your mentee says they’re nervous about a test. What’s a follow-up?
“What subject is it for?” or “Have you studied much for it?”
How can you show support without giving advice?
Say, “That sounds really hard” or “I’m here if you need to talk.”
What’s a good question to ask about weekend plans?
“Do you have anything fun planned for the weekend?”
How can you share a common interest without taking over the conversation?
“I like that too! What’s your favorite part about it?”
What’s something you can do with your face or body to show you’re listening?
Make eye contact and use a relaxed face or smile.
Your mentee says they like art. What’s a good follow-up that keeps the conversation going?
“What kind of art do you like to make or look at?”
Your mentee is excited about something. What’s a way to share in their excitement?
Smile and say something like, “That’s awesome! I’m happy for you.”
Ask a question that shows interest in your mentee’s goals.
“Is there anything you want to try or get better at this year?”
What can you do if you don’t have anything in common right away?
Ask more questions to learn new things and keep listening.
What’s a way to show you remember something your mentee said before?
Bring it up later, like “Did you ever finish that drawing you told me about?”
Why are follow-up questions helpful in building rapport?
They show you’re paying attention and that you care about what the person is saying.
Why is empathy important in a mentor relationship?
It helps your mentee feel safe, understood, and respected.