Training

Training Best Practices

Preparation & Training 

From Elements of Effective Practice for Mentoring: A Guide for Program Development and Improvement (5th edition): “The mentoring program offers robust preparation for mentors – most often in the form of a mandatory multi-hour training event – prior to any mentor beginning work with a young person, with additional training offered over the course of their relationship. This training should provide mentors with information critical to their success in the role while also building their confidence for the experience and a sense of collaboration with staff around fulfilling their role.” 

  • Require initial training for mentors and mentees that: 
    • Provides an introduction to the program 
    • Prepares them for their role 
    • Shares and assesses learning outcomes 
    • Consider if there is a difference in training for returning vs. new mentors and mentees 
  • Provide ongoing training and upskilling opportunities 
  • Consider training method: In-person, virtual, asynchronous, or combination 
  • Gather feedback from participants to assess if the training met needs 

Mentor Training

  • Suggested topics the training should include: 
    • Mentorship overview 
      • Definition and purpose 
      • Key mentoring skills, such as active listening, empathy, social capital, advocacy and support 
    • Program specific information sharing  
      • Program values, beliefs, learning outcomes, and ethical principles 
      • Program requirements, rules, and expectations, including participation in program activities 
      • Mentoring relationship and limitations 
      • Troubleshooting and/or concerns process 
      • Program contact information 
    • Mentoring relationship information sharing 
      • Communication/outreach plan 
      • Goal setting and expectations 
      • Safety 
    • University calendar and events 
      • Academic calendar 
      • Awareness to finals week and school breaks/closures 
  • Consider networking/engagement/team building activity 
  • Consider role plays, mentoring scenarios, or other opportunities to practice or apply new skills and knowledge 
  • Consider a moment to connect and share past experiences from returning mentors, including challenges 
  • Tools for mentors 
    • Structured conversation resources 
    • Resources and referral document, including academics, basic needs, safety, etc. 

Mentee Training

  • Topics the training should include: 
    • Mentorship overview 
      • Definition and purpose 
      • Key mentoring skills, such as active listening, empathy, social capital, advocacy and support 
    • Program specific information sharing  
      • Program values, beliefs, learning outcomes, and ethical principles 
      • Program requirements, rules, and expectations, including participation in program activities 
      • Mentoring relationship and limitations 
      • Troubleshooting and/or concerns process 
      • Program contact information 
    • Mentoring relationship information sharing 
      • Communication/outreach plan 
      • Goal setting and expectations 
      • Safety 
  • Consider networking/engagement/team building activity 
  • Consider a moment to connect and share past experiences from returning/past mentees, including challenges 
  • Tools for mentees 
    • Developing an introduction message 
    • Opportunities to engage 

Mentoring