E-mentoring
Introduction | Programmes | Research | Presentations | FAQs
Kevin Hunt answers your questions on e-mentoring:
Q1: What is E-Mentoring?
A1: Here is the definition of E-Mentoring that we use:
E-Mentoring uses technology to facilitate the development of a supportive relationship for experimentation & personal development in a safe, convenient & timely environment; helping both mentee & mentor to grow”
Q2: So what is different between E-Mentoring & Mentoring?
A2: The principle difference is that E-Mentoring uses technology based communication tools, predominately Email, whereas most traditional based Mentoring uses face-to-face contact through meetings. In essence there is no need to the Mentor & Mentee to meet up in an E-Mentoring relationship.
Q3: But can the same level of benefits for the mentee be achieved?
A3: Yes. Research has shown us that it is possible for the mentee to achieve the same level of benefits plus some that are not possible through traditional types of mentoring. These tend to be around the frequency of communication, the fact that it is independent of time and that the location of the Mentor & Mentee become irrelevant.
Q4: Why E-Mentoring
A4: Assuming that the mentor and mentee are matched correctly and achieve their goals and objectives we have found the following to be key:
• It can be very cost effective
• It overcomes the constraints of Face-to-Face Mentoring, such as:
• Independent of location, anywhere in the world
• No restrictions on time
• The nature of asynchronous communications allows for reflection
• E-Mail is convenient and universal
• New technology can be accommodated, such as desk top video conferencing, instant messaging etc.
• Creates the potential for much greater levels of engagement
• Can complement and enhance existing development programmes
• Allows for easier participation
Q5: How are mentee & mentor matched?
A5: That depends on the way in which the project/programme is set up, but the fact that you don't have to find someone close, and that because it is easier to participate you can generate a greater number of mentors to choose from is very beneficial.
Q6 Other than location not being an issue, how do you match up two people?
A6: That really depends on the objectives of the programme/project, for instance within the MentorsByNet programme ( www.mentorsbynet.co.uk ) we focused on the skills that the mentee identified they wanted to develop and it didn't matter where the mentor was located. In some Face-to-Face mentoring programmes they are forced to select the mentor that is closest to the mentee, rather than being able to focus on the skills.
Q7: Is there training?
A7 We would normally recommend any programme is supported by on-line training material. In fact we have already developed an on-line training programme around the core competencies of mentoring. We have also developed a self assessment programme for mentors.
Q8: How does the ‘self-assessment' work?
A8 Working with Sheffield Hallam University Coaching & Mentoring Unit we developed an online self assessment test that potential mentors can undertake. They are then provided with feedback against the core competencies needed for a mentor linked to the on-line training material for their personal development plan.
Q9: How long does it take to set up an E-Mentoring programme?
A9 This depends on what the client wants to achieve, the size and scope of the project. The technical elements can be done fairly quickly, but we shouldn't forget that an E-Mentoring programme is likely to be part of a wider development or change programme, and these can take time.
Q10: Who benefits?
A10 Obviously the mentee and in most cases so does the mentor. And there are many benefits for the organising body, whether it is a private sector organisation or public sector or one of the many support organisations. The key to identifying the potential benefits is to be very clear of the objectives for an E-Mentoring programme/project.
Q11: What does it cost?
A11 Most of the programmes we have done to date are very different to each other, although there are some core elements that are transferable between one project and another we would still need to define the objectives and scope a project to be able to offer costs.
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