How to Mentor Junior Developers and Help Them Reach Their Full Potential

The minute we begin to think we have all the answers, we forget the questions — Madeleine L’Engle

Agile methodologies rely on collaboration and communication to be successful. Teams should ask users for feedback to make sure the features they make meet customers’ needs.

Can you share some ways in which you have improved the organization? How has your work had a quantifiable impact? What tasks do you undertake that help keep the organization functioning well? What is the outcome of these tasks? Have you mentored anyone, and if so, what were their accomplishments? Which teams and leaders are familiar with and supportive of your work? What do they value about your job? It’s important to ask your sponsor how you can support them. The work can be complex and ambiguous, with many stakeholders to consider.

It’s important to stay aligned with your manager, bring value to meetings, and be present. When you have a sponsor present, it’s crucial to consider the team’s needs. Make sure you prepare for meetings and volunteer for low-status tasks. Avoid being dogmatic, withholding consent, or dominating conversations.

[¹]: The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever