Got questions about our Business Mentor Program? You’ve come to the right place.
Business Mentor Program FAQs
Who can become a mentor?
Mentors are typically retired or active business owners, professionals or executives with significant experience. Mentors are willing to volunteer their time to help other business owners grow and succeed.
Who can become a mentee?
Mentees can be aspiring entrepreneurs, new business owners or small business operators. Mentees are seeking advice, support and insights from more experience professionals so they can achieve their business goals.
What are the benefits of joining the Program?
As a mentee, you can learn from real-world experiences, avoid common pitfalls and gain confidence to achieve your goals.
As a mentor, you can give back to the business community, build connections and stay engaged with emerging business trends.
How are mentors and mentees matched?
Mentors are matched to mentees based on business goals, industry and interests. Mentees can express up to three preferences for their mentor and this will be taken into consideration. However, we can’t always guarantee a preferred mentor depending on compatibility, availability and the overall needs of the Program.
What if the match doesn’t work out?
If the mentoring relationship isn’t effective, Council’s Business Mentor Program Coordinator can facilitate any issues or concerns and assist with re-matching if necessary.
How does the Program work?
Once matched, the mentee is responsible for approaching their mentor and arranging sessions. There are four free one-on-one sessions over a 12-month period as part of the Program.
In the first session, the mentor and mentee will sign the Confidentiality and Indemnity Deed as well as the Program Agreement and Code of Conduct.
The mentor and mentee must fill out a feedback form after each mentoring session and submit it to Council’s Business Mentor Program Coordinator within five days. This helps the Coordinator to monitor the progression of the mentoring relationship and identify any issues or concerns with the match. It also helps you to get the most out of the Program.
Does the Program cost anything to join?
No, the Program is completely free.
Are mentors paid?
No, mentors are volunteers, so they are not paid for their time as part of the Program.
What commitment is expected from mentors and mentees?
Mentors and mentees commit to respecting each other’s time, goals and feedback. Mentees may be assigned tasks by mentors, which they must commit to completing before booking another mentoring session.
What topics can be covered in mentoring sessions?
Common topics of discussion include business planning, marketing, finance, operations, leadership, growth strategies, and navigating challenges.
How do I apply to be a mentor or mentee?
To be a mentee, submit a simple online application form. We’ll contact shortlisted applicants for a follow-up discussion to make sure the Program is right for you.
To be a mentor, express your interest by emailing business@gleneira.vic.gov.au. We’ll notify you when we are recruiting mentors so you can submit a formal EOI.
Is the Program confidential?
All conversations between mentors and mentees are confidential unless both parties agree otherwise. Mentors and mentees must sign a Confidentiality and Indemnity Deed in the first mentoring session.
