ENERAL
π What is Inforum's Mentor Match Program?
Inforum's mentoring program reflects our commitment to you and your professional development. This unique online networking and career development program helps you find, connect, and share experiences with other members. Designed for Inforum members, and can only be accessed by logging in with your Inforum username and password.
π« No extra charges, no hidden fees.
We believe in making mentorship accessible to all our members without any financial hurdles. The Mentorship ProgramΒ comes bundled with your membership, making it the ultimate benefit for your professional journey.
How are mentors and mentees matched?
π― Step 1: Enroll and Set Your Preferences First things first β become a proud member! Whether you're the mentor or mentee, the journey begins with enrollment. Members must first enroll as a mentor or mentee. During the enrollment process, select your mentoring topics, session preferences, and career stage to establish your personal criteria.
π΅οΈββοΈ For Mentees: Finding Your Mentor
Head over to the "Find a Mentor" page β your treasure map to mentorship gold.
1. Select your search criteria, this will create the perfect list of mentors to match your interests. You can also leave all of the search criteria blank to view all mentors.
2. The list of mentors will appear at the bottom of the screen after you select "Find Mentors". Select the mentor's name to view their profile.
3. Once you've found the one (or ones!), click on the mentor badge below their profile picture.
4. Voila! An automated email will whisk its way to the chosen mentor, letting them know you've requested them. They can then decide to accept or gracefully decline.
5. If after a week or so you haven't received a response you can send an email request as well. Most of the Inforum profiles contain email information. See template for email request.
π§ββοΈ For Mentors: Seeking Your Mentee
Time to explore the "Find a Mentee" page β your portal to discovering mentee gems.
1. Select your search criteria, detailing the kind of mentee you would like to connect with. You can also leave all of the search criteria blank to view all mentees.
2. The list of mentees will appear at the bottom of the screen after you select "Find Mentees". Select the mentee's name to view their profile.
3. Once you've found the perfect match, click on the mentee badge below their profile picture.
4. Abracadabra! An automated email will be sent to the chosen mentee, signaling that they've got a mentor admirer. They can then decide to accept or respectfully decline.
5. If after a week or so you haven't received a response you can send an email request as well. Most of the Inforum profiles contain email information. See template for email request.Β
π€ Mutual Consent is Key Here's the secret sauce β it's all about mutual consent. Mentors and mentees have the power to accept or decline requests, ensuring that the mentorship journey begins on a foundation of shared enthusiasm.
Ready to dive into the magical world of mentorship matchmaking? Enroll, set your preferences, and let the matching adventures begin!
Expectations for Our Amazing Mentors and Mentees!
π Your Role as a Mentor and Mentee:
π€ Fulfillment of Commitment We trust that you'll embark on the rewarding journey of developing at least one mentoring relationship. Your experience, trust and guidance will have the power to shape a professional destiny.
π Timely Responses to Requests The mentorship magic begins with your responsiveness. When a mentee or mentor knocks on the door of wisdom, we expect you to answer in a timely manner. Your guidance is a beacon, so shine that light promptly!
π£ Effective CommunicationΒ Communication is the wand that conjures successful mentorship. We trust that you'll communicate as agreed upon by both parties. Whether it's regular check-ins, virtual coffee chats, or carrier owls β find what works best and keep the mentorship conversation flowing. Be respectful of each other's time, rescheduling or cancelling with an advanced notice.Β
π‘ The Power of Your Mentorship:
π± Cultivate Growth: Be the nurturing soil for your professional growth. Share your experiences, insights, and lessons learned. Your mentorship is a catalyst for their flourishing career.
π Active Listening: The mentor-mentee symphony thrives on active listening. Hear their challenges, aspirations, and dreams. Your attentive ear is the key to tailor-made guidance.
π Encourage Diversity of Thought: Embrace the kaleidoscope of ideas! Encourage your mentee to think beyond boundaries. Your mentorship isn't just about sharing knowledge; it's about fostering a culture of innovation.
π€ Thank You for Being a Mentor or Mentee Superstar!
Your commitment to a mentoring relationship is a gift to our community. A mentor or mentee will positively impact your career journey. You will gain and provide valuable career insights, a broadened scope of various company cultures, and professional inspiration. Thank you for being the beacon of wisdom in our mentorship galaxy!
How Long Does the Mentoring Relationship Last?
β Tailoring Time to Your Needs:
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No One-Size-Fits-All: The beauty of mentorship is its flexibility. There's no rigid timeline; it's a canvas waiting for your strokes. We recommend that you and your mentor embark on a magical journey by agreeing on a schedule that suits both of you.
π¬ Discuss Expectations Early On: The key to a successful mentorship is communication from the get-go. As you step into this partnership, have an open conversation about your mutual expectations regarding time and communication. This sets the tone for a journey crafted to perfection.
π€ Creating Your Mentorship Timeline:
ποΈ Setting Milestones: Consider setting milestones and goals for your mentorship. Whether it's a monthly check-in or a quarterly review, create a roadmap that aligns with your shared objectives.
β° Flexibility is the Name of the Game: Life is a dynamic adventure, and so is mentorship. Be open to adapting your schedule based on your evolving needs and priorities. Flexibility ensures that mentorship remains a positive force in both your lives.
π The Beauty is in the Experience:
π€ Enjoy the Journey: Mentorship is not just about the destination; it's about savoring the journey. Embrace each interaction, learn from one another, and let the mentorship relationship evolve organically.
π Time is a Guideline, Not a Constraint: While we recommend discussing a schedule, remember that it's a guideline, not a constraint. Some mentorships may be brief yet impactful, while others may be long-lasting. The magic is in the connection you share.
π Your Mentorship, Your Timeline:
Your mentorship relationship is a unique tapestry woven with your experiences and insights. Craft a timeline that suits your needs, discuss expectations openly, and embark on this journey with excitement. The duration may vary, but the impact is boundless!
I'm a mentor, what if Iβm going to be on vacation or unavailable?
βοΈ Soaking Up the Sun or Taking a Breather? Here's what to do:
1. π Visit the Mentor Enrollment Page Time for a quick detour to the Mentor Enrollment page β your hub for managing your mentorship journey.
2. π Hit the "Mentor Status" Link Find the "Mentor Status" link like you're embarking on a quest. It's your gateway to mentorship tranquility.
3. βοΈ Check the "Temporarily Not Participating" Box Click the check-box next to "Temporarily Not Participating." This signals to the mentorship realm that you're taking a brief pause.
4. π« No New Requests, No Worries By doing this, you're gracefully indicating that you're not accepting new mentee requests at the moment. Your mentoring profile takes a serene nap and won't appear in a mentee's search for a mentor.
5. π£ Communicate with Your Mentees It's your responsibility to let your existing mentees know about your temporary absence. Clear communication keeps the mentorship magic alive.
ποΈ Vacation mode activated!
Whether you're sipping a tropical drink or simply taking a breather, enjoy your time away. When you're back and ready for the mentorship adventure to resume, just reverse the steps and let the mentorship magic continue!
How to End a Mentoring Relationship?
π When the Mentorship Journey is Complete:
π Visit the "My Mentoring Relationships" Page Head to the sacred grounds of the "My Mentoring Relationships" page β the keeper of your mentorship adventures.
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Mark the Relationship as "Completed" With the wisdom of a mentor, find the option to mark the relationship as "Completed." This signals to the mentorship cosmos that your journey together has reached its beautiful finale.
πͺ Celebrate the Success Pop the virtual champagne! By completing the mentoring relationship, you've not just closed a chapter but opened new doors for growth and achievement.
π When it's Time to Part Ways:
π Again, Head to the "My Mentoring Relationships" Page Return to the familiar territory of the "My Mentoring Relationships" page. It's your mentorship control center.
π¬ Kindly Discuss Your Decision Communication is key. If the mentorship path is winding in a different direction, have an open and honest discussion with your mentee. Share your decision to end the relationship kindly and constructively.
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Mark the Relationship as "Completed" With grace, mark the relationship as "Completed" on the same page. This formalizes the closure and allows both mentor and mentee to move forward.
π€ Ending with Respect and Gratitude
No matter the reason for closure, every mentoring relationship has a season. End it with respect, gratitude, and the acknowledgment as a mentor or mentee you have contributed to each other's development.