Hans-Dieter Pletz (Mentor)
What is my advantage as a mentor, being a former SGP participant myself?
Hans-Dieter Pletz is himself an SGP alumnus and today is a mentor for the latest generation of participants. Read on to find out what aspects are particularly important for him as a mentor.
When were you appointed a mentor and how many mentees have you accompanied so far?
My first mentor activity started approximately six years ago. In this time period I have accompanied ten mentees, four of whom were SGP participants and the other six coming from the Trainee Program Manufacturing.
Are you still in contact with any of your former mentees? If yes, how does this contact occur?
I still keep in touch with former mentees via email contact as well as at regular meetings.
How exactly did you become a mentor?
We have always had SGP participants in my organization and the request came in to nominate an official mentor. That’s when I became mentor.
And why did you decide to become a mentor?
I am very interested in the process of enabling people to achieve top performance and in finding out their strengths to appoint them the right jobs. As a former SGPer I know just how important a mentor can be.
What is important to you as a mentor and what do you do to support your mentees?
It is motivating to see the development of skills of SGP participants. Regular meetings with very open feedback help the mentees to improve their efficiency and their capabilities.
Do you have any tips for future participants, e.g., how to make most of the mentor-mentee relationship?
It is necessary to have an open discussion at least every two months and to have a perception of the activities of the mentee. Stay interested in the mentoring process. Keep an open mind and be prepared to invest time.
Current Position
Vice President Manufacturing, Quality Management, Environmental, Health and Safety