Setting clear goals is one of the most important steps in making mentoring effective. Goals provide direction, make progress visible, and help both the mentee and mentor stay aligned. Yet, many people enter their first mentoring relationship unsure what to focus on or how to articulate what they need. This guide outlines how to set meaningful mentoring goals and includes 12 concrete examples tailored to different stages of your career. Whether you are just starting out, navigating a transition, or developing as a leader, these examples can help you define direction and get the most from mentoring.