IOIC mentoring programme.

The IOIC Mentoring Programme is free for all members. The programme runs three times a year, opening for applications in February, June and October.

• Applications are reviewed by the IOIC team, who match participants based on individual requirements and objectives, experience, area of expertise, location, communication preferences and any other relevant skills or aspirations.
• Once matched, you will receive the details of your mentor or mentee along with guidance to help you get the most from the relationship. From there, it is over to you to make contact and get started.
• We recommend the relationship runs for at least six months, giving both parties time to benefit fully from the programme. It can continue for as long as it works for both of you.
• Around six weeks after matching, the IOIC team will check in to see how things are going.

Benefits of mentoring for mentees:

• Increased self-confidence and self-awareness 
• Providing the time and space to reflect on your career and ongoing development
• Developing skills and/or competencies 
• Exposure to new/different perspectives 
• Contributing to your continuing professional development (CPD)
• Learning from a more experienced professional 
• Guided and supported professional development and goal setting 
• Developing a long-lasting connection and growing your personal network 
• Helping you to gain recognition for your commitment to your development. 

Benefits of mentoring for mentors:

• Developing your technical and interpersonal skills 
• Allowing you to share your knowledge and experience – giving you a sense of personal accomplishment 
• Developing your leadership and management skills 
• Supporting the next generation by sharing your experience 
• Demonstrating commitment to the profession and its advancement 
• Building a long-lasting connection and growing your personal network 
• Exposure to new/different perspectives 
• Supporting your career development and personal growth.
• Contributing to your continuing professional development (CPD). 

How much does the mentoring programme cost?

The mentoring programme is free for members of the IOIC. 

Can I join the programme if I am not a member? 

No, the programme is only available for members of the IOIC. If you are not yet a member and would like to join, you can find out more about membership and how to join here. 

Can I claim back expenses related to mentoring?

No. As the mentoring programme is a free member benefit, the IOIC cannot repay any expenses incurred.

How are mentees and mentors matched?

Applications are reviewed by IOIC's Professional Development team and matches are made depending on individual requirements and objectives, experience and area/s of expertise, location, preferences regarding contact and communication, and any other specific or relevant skills or aspirations. 

Do I have to provide a specific objective?

We encourage mentees where possible to provide a specific objective or issue they would like a mentor to support them with. If you do not have a specific objective you are still welcome to take part in the programe, however in order for us to match you appropriately, please ensure that you provide as much information as possible on your application. Your mentor may discuss your objective with you in your initial meeting and try to work with you to identify a goal for the sessions. 

Am I guaranteed to be matched with a mentor?

Due to the number of applications received from mentees in comparison to applications from mentors, unfortunately the IOIC cannot guarantee a match every time. We recommend including as much detail as possible in your application to improve your chances of being successfully matched. If we are unable to find a match for you we will prioritise your application in the next available round. 

How long does the mentoring programme last?

We recommend that your mentoring relationship lasts for at least 6 months in order for both mentee and mentor to fully benefit from the scheme. However, we are happy for the relationship to last for as long as is convenient for both parties.

How long does it take for me to be matched with my mentor/mentee?

We aim to match with your mentee/mentor within four weeks of the closing date of the mentoring round. 

What happens if I miss an application window?

The IOIC is unable to make mentoring matches outside of the intake periods. Applications open in February, June and October annually, so keep an eye on our upcoming programmes. 

What happens once I am matched?

You will receive the details of your respective mentor or mentee along with guidance from the IOIC. After that it's down to you to contact your mentee/mentor and get the ball rolling.

What support will I be given?

Once you are matched with your mentor or mentee, you will be given a guidance document as well as some materials (including a structure guide and time diary) to help you through the process and provide you with some ideas about how best to utilise the relationship. 

Will you be in touch during the programme?

A member of the IOIC will contact you and your respective mentee/mentor around six months into the programme to ask for any feedback and to check on your progress.

Our Professional Development team will be available throughout the process should you need any guidance or support throughout the programme, please email us on [email protected]. 

What do I do if I have an issue?

Any questions, queries or concerns can be directed to [email protected]. 

Did you know that mentoring contributes to your CPD points for the year? To log these simply go to your ‘My CPD Area’ which can be found in your IoIC account.