Frequently Asked Questions

Overview/Purpose

What should I expect from the Mentor/Mentee experience?

Mentorship is a process by which an experienced, well-regarded, empathic person (the mentor) guides another individual (the mentee) in the development and examination of their (the mentee’s) own ideas, learning, and personal and professional development.

I am not certain how a mentor might benefit me. Will it result in me getting a better job, i.e., will this gain me a promotion when I’ve finished my mentorship?

That is not the specific intent of the mentorship program; however, it will help you prepare for a bigger role.  Goals of the mentorship program are to accelerate talent development, to learn more about management and leadership within the School of Medicine’s culture and to create a “pool of talent” to draw from when fitting opportunities arise.

If my goal is to grow in a particular skill-set (e.g., grant and contract management), is a mentorship program where I can best accomplish this?

Knowledge of what you want to get out of the program will help you in deciding to pursue the mentor/mentee relationship and in choosing a mentor.  The mentorship relationship is about helping you, the mentee, to develop as a professional in a variety of ways.  If your main focus is on improving your technical capabilities, you may find a good match in the mentorship program, but may also wish to pursue POD courses or other training.

The Mentor-Mentee Relationship

Choosing the right mentor seems like it might be very difficult. What are some tips for choosing the right mentor?   

• Find someone genuinely interested in you as an individual; someone who listens and asks insightful questions that make you think.  The mentor needs to have credibility with you;
• Someone who shares appropriate experiences and insights, successes and failures;
• Someone who knows when to talk and when to listen
• A good mentor is your sounding board, provides fresh perspective and feedback. 
• A good mentor offers encouragement and praises your progress, but can also give you honest feedback when you need it.

What do I, as the Mentee, need to bring to the relationship?

• Be as clear as you can be about your goals and expectations from the experience;
• Show up for the relationship, give energy and commitment to the mentor/mentee process
• Encourage yourself to be yourself and to take risks

Eligibility

How do I know if I am eligible to apply to be a mentee? 

You must have been employed for 6 months at UW and be in good standing.

Do I have to be a full-time career employee to apply to be a mentee?

You do not need to be full-time. We are inviting applications from interested permanent employees who are at 50% FTE or greater. For additional mentee criteria, please refer to the Mentee page.

I'm not part of the School of Medicine, can I participate? 

No. At present the Mentorship Program is designed and available for the UW School of Medicine staff only. Program success and feedback will help determine next steps.

For additional mentee criteria, please refer to the Mentee page.

 

What are the criteria to be a mentor? 

We are seeking individuals who are eager to foster and grow School of Medicine leaders through shared professional growth and learning by way of mentor: mentee relationship(s). Minimum requirement: two years leadership experience (UW School of Medicine or otherwise).

For additional mentor criteria, please visit the Mentor page.

Program Process

How long does the program last? 

The program runs on a 12-month cycle. During the last 3 months of the program year, the Mentorship Committee organizes and solicits participation from both mentors and mentees to enable October kick-off. Between October and the following June, the cohort is active and engaged in the program.

How many mentor applicants do you accept? 

Our goal is to interest as many mentors as possible who fit the criteria listed on the Mentor page. The more mentor participation, the more mentees we can accept, and the better likelihood of a successful match.

How many mentee applicants do you select?

Our mentee population is determined largely by the number of mentors who participate in any given year / cohort. We will always strive to include as many mentees as possible. 

How much time can I expect to commit to the program as a mentee?  As a mentor?

Mentees can expect to commit approximately 3-6 hours per month or more, depending on the agreement they create with their mentor. The Mentee Group meets for one hour per month as a requirement of the program.
Mentors can expect to commit 2-4 hours per month, depending on what is agreed upon with their mentee. There are some events prior to the launch of the program that require additional time (orientation, social and interview period). 

How does the matching happen between the mentee and mentor? 

Mentees are able to meet, interview, and rank prospective mentors with whom they hope to be paired. Mentors will have a comparable mentee ranking option. Match decisions are made after careful consideration by the Mentorship Committee.

Can I re-apply for the program if I have applied in the past and not been selected? 

Yes, you are welcome to apply again.

What role does my supervisor play in my application? 

We encourage you to discuss your planned participation with your supervisor. While it's not essential that your supervisor supports your being in the program, it can be helpful.