Mentees: take that time slot!
Most mentees worry about wasting their mentor's time.
Stop...
Asking "do you have time?" when there's an open slot
Worrying that you're monopolizing your mentor's time
Assuming you're coming off as needy
Mentors are invigorated by curious, engaged, enthusiastic mentees. We want to spend time with you, coach you, hear you out.
Great mentor/mentee relationships are built on:
Ongoing, open communication
Sharing mutual value
Intentional and purposeful connection
If your mentor doesn't have time, they'll tell you. They'll reschedule. They'll ask you to pick a new date.
If the time's open on their calendar, grab it.
They'll be glad you did.