Become a Mentor

Mentoring a woman to help her gain career advancement, satisfaction, promotion, and balance in her life could be one of the most rewarding things you will ever do.

Becoming a mentor with the AWMN means that mentees who are looking for a mentor with your experience, skills and knowledge will be able to search for, and find your profile online. They will then be able to send an email to you via the AWMN site to invite you to become their mentor.

Benefits of being a mentor

Studies of mentoring in practice indicate that the benefits of being a mentor can include:

• Development of management, leadership and communication skills

• A learning opportunity which will provide exposure to new ideas and ways of thinking

• Helping develop and support our female leaders of tomorrow

• Personal satisfaction in making a contribution through sharing your ideas and experience

• Transferal of knowledge

• Increased respect, prestige,  confidence and self esteem

• Contributing to your career development track record

(Note that the level of benefits obtained depends on the quality of the mentoring relationship and the commitment of each of the parties to making it work).

What does it take to be a mentor?

Chances are, if you've had at least 5yrs experience in your industry, and you're passionate about helping others achieve satisfaction in their lives and career, you'd probably make a good mentor!

In addition, some of these specific qualities are also good to have (all of which can be developed while you are mentoring!):

• Good communication and rapport-building skills

• Knowledge of industry protocol, methods for "getting ahead", and diversity issues

• Experience in loving your job, or in achieving a balance of work and family

• Honesty, integrity and confidence in your own position

• Good organisation skills to lead and manage the mentoring process

Prior experience in mentoring is useful, but not necessary. The AWMN offers a number of resources to help you develop and enhance your mentoring skills, and provides advice on how to establish your relationship with your mentee.

We will also soon be offering seminars and mentor training workshops. Further information and guidelines on mentoring are provided in the members area, once you have joined the AWMN.