What’s expected of me?

As a programme mentee it is up to you to bring about positive change and to lead your own development. Your mentor can guide, encourage and support but they cannot do things for you. Your mentor may not have an in-depth knowledge of relevant issues, but this does not mean they will not be able to help you. Mentoring relationships have clear boundaries with a clear structure and a set timeframe.

If you join the programme as a mentee you should

Have clear reasons as to why you want a mentor
Be able to commit approx. 1 hour every 4-6 weeks to work with your mentor (whether via phone, Zoom or Teams, or in person)
Attend mandatory monthly online training events
Participate in some of the optional networking and skill building opportunities
Be prepared to take an active role in leading the relationship with your mentor
Have a clear understanding of the project, your commitment to it and no unreasonable preconceptions about what it will deliver
Understand that mentoring is not a solution to the challenges being faced – it is a foundation for self-development and greater opportunities in the future

Code of Practice

Prepare for each meeting
Identify and agree mutual needs and an action plan
Abide by strict codes of confidentiality
Be open to each other’s views and differences
Respect each other’s time
Agree that the relationship is a relationship between equals and may be dissolved following a mutual discussion
Be able to communicate, listen and negotiate with tact and sensitivity
Work towards the set objectives and the overall goals of the mentee
Be practical and aware of the boundaries of the relationship
Be punctual and avoid cancelling meetings if at all possible
Be aware of each other’s limitations

How you can help your mentor

Be clear about your objectives. Reflect upon your needs you identify to make sure they are being addressed. Additional needs may well emerge as you go along
Establish clear boundaries. How long is this relationship for? Set a start and end date. Set the expectation of frequency of meetings
Ensure you set clear boundaries about what you want to achieve with your mentor. For example, is this relationship focused purely on your professional life and learning or do you want the discussion to include additional aspects of your life