Mentoring FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Mentoring
Why should I join a mentoring programme?
The following are considered the benefits to mentees of being part of a mentoring programme:
• Better career opportunities
• Increased levels of compensation
• Higher job and career satisfaction
• More effective networking
• Enhanced well-being and work-life balance
What is reverse mentoring?
When a younger, or less experienced person helps a more senior person, this is known as reverse mentoring. This may be appropriate to provide a fresh perspective, specific skills and or knowledge of youth culture or new technology.
What is Co-mentoring?
Co-mentoring is a mentoring relationship where the two partners take it in turns to mentor each other. The topic of mentoring sessions may depend on the expertise and specialism of each person.
Co-mentees may be at the same stage of their career in particular aspects but not others.
What is the difference between coaching and mentoring?
Coaching is typically paid for time from a specialist or expert who does not necessarily have experience in the field of the client or mentee. Coaching is also a style or approach which encourages people to find their own potential. The traditional view of mentoring is that an older, more knowledgeable or experienced person acts as a sounding board for a younger or less experienced person. Often the expectation is that the mentor would be experienced in the target sector of the mentee but other aspects of development may be the subject of a mentoring relationship. Mentoring is more likely to be be voluntary than free all the mentor may be paid by the organisation or a public programme, if not by the mentee.
Does mentoring have to be face to face?
Some companies are experimenting with e-mentoring via email, skype or other communication software. This usually comes down to practical considerations and personal preference. There are certain advantages of having at least one face to face meeting at the start of a relationship as a shortcut to establishing rapport.
Where can I get help campaigning for a mentoring programme at work?
For organisations the benefits of a company-wide mentoring programme are as follows:
- Increased organisational competitiveness
- Low cost leadership development
- Effective lever for employee engagement
- Reduced staff turnover
- More effective knowledge transfer
- Increased organisational attractiveness
(EPWN book) (Mirella has experience. Contact Ines for more: mentoring@europeanpwn-nice.net.
