Mentoring frequently asked questions
1. What is the time commitment involved?
2. I just graduated a few years ago. Can I still be a mentor?
3. What is the role of the mentor?
4. What qualities are you looking for in mentors?
5. Will there be mentor training and support?
6. If things are not working out with my student, what can be done?
1. What is the time commitment involved?
Mentors need to commit to the minimum number of meetings and hours outlined in faculty- or program-specific guidelines: approximately 15 hours over two school terms (8 months). This time commitment typically includes up to two social events, as well as other in-person meetings and email contact.
2. I just graduated a few years ago. Can I still be a mentor?
Yes. Young alumni can provide valuable advice about the transition from school to work. You are encouraged to mentor if you are in a professional occupation, respectful, and willing to commit to the mentoring relationship.
3. What is the role of the mentor?
- To provide career and labour market information.
- To share information on the work environment and workplace expectations.
- To help the student increase their employable skills.
- To work with the student to achieve three goals/objectives of mentoring relationships.
- To help the student develop and establish personal contacts in the industry.
- To become familiar with the mentoring process, the Tri-Mentoring Program, and the role of mentor.
4. What qualities are you looking for in mentors?
Mentors should be:
- Respectful
- A good listener
- Empathetic
- Trustworthy
- Honest
- Patient
- A good role model
Mentors should have the following skills:
- Ability and willingness to guide students toward their own solutions, rather than presenting them with ready-made solutions to problems.
- Leadership abilities stemming from industry or organizational knowledge, competence, experience, and success in their field.
- Ability to communicate, listen, and empathize with students.
- Ability to provide constructive feedback.
- Previous mentorship experience or interest in employee development.
- Willingness to commit to the mentoring role.
5. Will there be mentor training and support?
Yes, we will provide mentor training at the start of the term. As well, the program coordinator is available to provide support and can direct you to other resources.
6. If things are not working out with my student, what can be done?
The faculty or program coordinator can help you work through challenges in your mentoring relationship. They can provide you with advice and guidance, act as an intermediary if you are having difficulty communicating with your student and, in extreme cases, may terminate the match and assign you a new student.
