MemberWise hosts the only structured mentoring programme within the Membership and Association Sector. 2 years on MemberWise revisits what the programme has achieved and why you should consider taking part as a Mentee or Mentor.
How does the programme work?
The programme is provided online (via MemberWise Connect – the Membership and Association Sector’s Online Professionals Community). It provides a structured framework for Membership and Association Professionals looking to be a mentee or mentor. Functionality enables quick online search and simple connection (in quite literally a a few clicks).
The programme is extremely flexible, all support materials (including helpful templates) are provided and the suggested mentoring period is 1 year.
How much does it cost to participate?
Nothing. It’s a free benefit of membership.
Why was the scheme launched?
The programme was launched shortly after the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 to outwardly demonstrate the network’s firm commitment to professional development/peer support during challenging times. Network Founder, Richard Gott commented:
“The inspiration behind the mentoring programme is quite a selfish one. I looked back on my career and wished I had access to something like it at various stages. E.g. When I first became a Membership Manager and/or a Director of Member Relations. Our mentoring programme means that whoever you are, whatever your career stage (or level) – this resource is accessible to you free, online and as/when you need or want it”.
What are the benefits of registering/taking part?
The programme has matched circa 100 professionals since launch. Mentees and Mentors have a wide range of backgrounds/roles, specialisms and career stages.
Mentees – The programme enables professionals to search for more experienced professionals who can help to support their individual learning and professional development learing (outside of traditional workplace learning and development opportunities). Mentees are able to ‘tap into’ unique knowledge/insight that may currently be unavailable internally. Also, it is great to have a learning/support network outside of the workplace (hence the existance of the MemberWise network!)
Mentors – With so many people ‘falling into membership’ the programme provides a great opportunity for professionals to share their knowledge/experience that is sometimes very hard to ‘tap into’ and achieved over many years. It is an extremely rewarding exercise that can enable more experienced professionals to ‘give back’ and optimise the association membership profession of the future.
How do I get started?
If you are not already registered on MemberWise Connect that is your first step. Once registered (and your account has been approved) you can immediately register as a Mentee or Mentor.
To find out more about how mentoring works and why should enrol as a Mentor, click on the link below. If you have any questions or queries about the programme, don’t hesitate to contact me.
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