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How do I prepare for our first meeting?

It's finally happened - you've been matched! You now have a name, and a corresponding person, to call mentor or mentee. So...what next?

It can be challenging to figure out just how to get the conversational ball rolling. And not just logistically - it's not easy to build a new relationship, and you might be feeling anxious or unsure of what to do next. The good news is, we have a checklist for you! Check out the tips below (developed in part by Mentorloop) to set a strong foundation for your mentorship. You'll see a few references to our discussion guides below; they're available for you at app.mentorcollective.org and they'll have more details on how to craft a strong start for your time together.

I'm a mentee | I'm a mentor

 

 

MENTEES

Before the first meeting:

  • Check out your mentor’s digital footprint — are they on Twitter or just LinkedIn? Do they have a blog? 
  • Send through a quick intro/bio via your introductory text or email from Mentor Collective — don’t go overboard with a cover letter and 6-page CV — just a couple of paragraphs about where you are right now. Need tips on this? Check out our "Tips for Your First Message" discussion guide for more guidance.
  • Consider your goals for the mentoring relationship — why are you here, and where do you want to be in 6 months?
  • Start to think about how you think your mentor could best assist you. Need tips on this? Check out our "Introduction and Success Plan" discussion guide for more guidance.

At the first meeting

  • Start by confirming the expectations of your relationship — how will you communicate and how often will you check in? Our Mentorship Jumpstart Questions have a "Setup" section to help you set these expectations for one another.
  • Let your mentor know how you’ll be tracking success — you should be the one driving this relationship — i.e. will you be sharing post-meeting notes and managing follow-ups?
  • Come prepared with three key goals of what you hope to achieve with this mentoring relationship, and give your mentor a clear idea of why you’re here.
  • DON’T straight-up ask for a job or a favor in the first conversation.
  • DO express appreciation and excitement for the relationship you're building together.

After the first meeting

  • Share a follow-up highlighting the key points discussed in your meeting, including any agreed next steps.
  • Connect with your mentor on LinkedIn, or whatever medium is most relevant to your industry.
  • Schedule your next meeting, set some tasks and goals and start planning how you’re going to hit those goals!

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MENTORS

Before the first meeting

  • Send a quick message introducing yourself, using the Mentor Collective introductory email or text message. Need tips on this? Check out our "Tips for Your First Message" discussion guide for more guidance.
  • Ask your mentee for a short bio and supporting details to introduce themselves.
  • Consider your own experience and strengths, and what you’ll bring to the relationship.
  • Consider what you want to get out of the mentoring relationship — this is a two-way street.

At the first meeting

  • It can seem dry and impersonal, but start off by setting the parameters of your relationship — how often should you connect and how will you communicate? (In person, via Zoom?) Getting the housekeeping out of the way first can be a great ice-breaker. Our Mentorship Jumpstart Questions have a "Setup" section to help you set these expectations for one another.
  • Introduce yourself to your mentee — thank them for their bio, and give a brief overview of your life highlights to date and relevant experience.
  • Why are you here? Let your mentee know why you’re offering your time back as part of this relationship, and how mentors have helped you along the way.
  • Make sure you come away with a clear idea of what your mentee is looking for in this relationship, so you can start planning how you can best assist and guide them in achieving their goals. Need tips on this? Check out our "Introduction and Success Plan" discussion guide for more guidance.

After the first meeting

  • Consider what you discussed, ensure it’s covered in the meeting wrap-up shared by your mentee.
  • Schedule the next check-in, share any relevant articles you’ve been enjoying, and start looking for opportunities to help your mentee grow!

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