Kheiron Module 2

Best Practices forOnline Communication Effective online communication is crucial in mentoring, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. By using clear, empathetic, and culturally sensitive messaging, mentors can build trust, foster meaningful relationships, and prevent misunderstandings in virtual settings. Online communication spans video calls, chat messages, emails, and shared platforms. To be effective, mentors should: Be clear and concise: Use straightforward language, check for understanding, and confirm expectations. These competencies align with the EU’s Digital Education Action Plan, which emphasizes inclusion and accessibility in online education, and with UNESCO’s MIL Framework, which highlights respectful dialogue and intercultural communication. Practice active listening: Show empathy, allow pauses, and encourage mentees to share. Use positive, encouraging tone: Praise effort, use affirmations, and be patient. Observe digital etiquette: Mute when necessary, use appropriate greetings, and maintain professionalism. Mind cultural and generational differences: Understand diverse communication styles and adapt tone, pace, and formality accordingly. Practical Examples A mentor starts each session with a brief personal check-in before diving into topics, building rapport and setting a positive tone. They send summaries and next steps after meetings, using bullet points to reinforce clarity and accountability. When mentees use informal slang or emojis, the mentor adapts, bridging generational gaps while maintaining respect. They set clear communication norms: response times, acceptable channels, and boundaries around availability. Real Mentoring Experience “During our online sessions, I aim to pause often and say, ‘What do you think?’ It encourages my mentees to speak up and feel valued, especially when they come from different regions and may need more time to express themselves. Clear expectations and affirming feedback have turned hesitant students into confident contributors.” George, 47, Student Mentor, 3rd LaboratoryCenter of East Attica 12