In Formal Mentoring Programs: Training Matters

In formal mentoring programs, preparation and training for the participants is critical to the success of the mentoring partnership.

Mentoring is an intimate learning relationship that requires intentionality to make it work. Too often I hear about programs that weren’t successful and have resulted in formal mentoring programs getting a bad rap. There are many benefits to formal mentoring programs, however, achieving the desired objectives of the program doesn’t happen by accident. In addition to a thoughtfully crafted matching process, training for mentoring partners is critical.

The three objectives of mentoring training are:  

1. Establishing a common framework. Varying definitions of mentoring exist as well as differing expectations regarding how to “conduct” mentoring to generate desired outcomes. Establishing a common framework for participants sets the context, parameters and expectations within which the partnerships will take place. Using a relational mentoring model places the focus on mutual learning where both mentees and mentors set goals for what they want to explore during the partnership.

2. Creating a foundation. Mentoring partnership training establishes the foundation for the relationship, serving as a facilitated first meeting between the mentee and mentor. The mentoring pair completes exercises and engage in dialog to establish points of connection, find alignment, set goals and discuss candidly how they want to carry out their relationship. This intentionality supports the pair to achieve their desired outcomes.

3. Developing mentoring skills. Relationships are strengthened from the onset through mentoring skills development such as bridging difference, generating trust, effective communication, open listening, asking powerful questions, sharing feedback and designing a partnership alliance.

There are no guarantees that a mentoring pair matched through a formal process will find points of connection and take a mutually active interest in the relationship. What I do know is that the right training matters. It is a fundamental aspect of implementing a formal program that sets up the participants for success, on their terms.

Have you participated in a formal program? What made that relationship work? What got in the way? Please share your experience.