What does good mentoring offer to people early in their careers?

Starting a first job, changing fields or developing a new specialism can feel uncertain. A person who helps you ask better questions can make the path clearer. Good mentoring is not simply giving instructions; it helps set goals, offers constructive feedback and supports independent decisions.

What kind of help would you value most from a mentor? What responsibilities should both people bring to a mentoring relationship? Share lessons from mentoring you have received or offered, without revealing private details.