70% of individuals with a mentor experience improved work performance and leadership development, according to the International Coach Federation. There is no denying that mentorships are powerful, defined seasons of growth- but even the best ones must eventually conclude. Ending a mentorship well is a vital part of the overall process and paves the way for continued positive momentum. For the relationship to be truly successful, the end needs to be handled with as much care and intentionality as the start.
Whether you’re a mentor wondering if you’ve done all you can, or a mentee who feels ready to step into full autonomy, knowing when and how to transition to the next stage is crucial. This dual-perspective guide breaks down the process of ending a mentorship side-by-side, providing mentee and mentor with clear signals to look out for, along with key steps for turning a formal mentorship into a lasting, valuable professional connection.
Recognising the Signs It’s Time to Move On
Mentor’s Perspective: Time to Signal the Close
Initial Goals Have Been Met
Your mentee has achieved the specific objectives you set out together (e.g., got the promotion, launched the project). The foundation is built, and your primary teaching task is done.
The Mentee Demonstrates Full Autonomy
Meetings are shifting from problem-solving to mere “catching up.” The mentee is making confident decisions and actively seeking new resources without needing your input.
Energy and Focus Have Waned
If either party starts postponing meetings consistently or the intensity of the sessions declines, it’s better to take steps towards ending a mentorship on a high note than to let the relationship simply fizzle out.
Mentee’s Perspective: Time to Prepare for Autonomy
Core Milestones Are Complete
You have successfully ticked off the major objectives you established with your mentor. Your initial reason for seeking guidance is now resolved.
You Are Answering Your Own Questions
You are now proactively solving complex problems and often realise you already know the answer to the advice you are seeking. You’ve internalised their thinking process.
You Need a New Challenge or Perspective
Your current needs may have shifted outside your mentor’s primary expertise. You are ready to pursue the next professional frontier that requires a new type of guidance.
Preparing for the Final Session
Mentor’s Perspective: Leading the Transition
Initiate the ‘Closing Session’
Don’t let it fade. Schedule a dedicated final meeting- the “Next Steps” session- to give the conclusion the importance it deserves. Frame ending a mentorship as a celebration of what has been achieved.
Reflect and Review the Wins
Go back over the original goals and boldly celebrate every milestone. Point out specific instances of growth and successful application of your advice to build their confidence.
Define Their ‘Next Chapter’
Help your mentee identify their next three steps that they must take without your formal guidance. Help them identify new resources or types of support for their future.
Mentee’s Perspective: Taking the Initiative
Schedule the ‘Review and Renew’ Conversation
Proactively suggest a final session to review your progress and define your strategy for the next 6-12 months to make ending a mentorship the start of a new chapter.
Document and Summarise Your Learning
Before the meeting, compile a ‘Mentorship Notebook‘- transcribe the most impactful advice and key frameworks. This ensures you retain the wisdom and feel ready to move forward.
Create Your Next-Step Goals
Independently define your next 3-5 professional goals that you will pursue without the formal structure. Having a clear path turns the transition into an exciting launch.
Ending a Mentorship Well
Mentor’s Perspective: Cementing the Legacy
Acknowledge Their Autonomy
Clearly state that your formal role is complete: “I believe you have developed all the tools and confidence you need to take the reins.” This is your greatest success.
Transition to a Long-Term Connection
Offer a clear “Lifeline.” Make it known you still want updates: “Please feel free to email me with updates a few times a year, or reach out if you need a quick piece of advice.”
Offer a Final Network Bridge
Provide one or two key introductions that will help them with their next phase of growth. This acts as a powerful final boost into their independent journey and solidifies your support.
Mentee’s Perspective: Cementing the Relationship
Offer Heartfelt and Specific Gratitude
Prepare and share three specific examples of how your mentor’s advice created a tangible positive outcome for you. This makes the “thank you” memorable and meaningful.
Ask to Stay Connected
Confirm their preferred method for professional updates (LinkedIn, email) and ask if it would be appropriate to send a brief “six-month update” email.
Offer Your Own Help
End the meeting by offering to reciprocate: “Please let me know if there’s ever anything I can do for you now or in the future. I would be happy to help.”
Remember:
The goal of any great mentorship is to make the mentee capable and the mentor successfully redundant. By ending a mentorship with intentionality and respect, you ensure the relationship concludes as a powerful catalyst for long-term professional success.
To learn more about what it means to be a mentor or mentee, check out our free Basics of Mentoring courses.