Mentor Welcome Packet

Dear Mentor,

Thank you again for agreeing to be a part of this groundbreaking program. The response has been overwhelming, and we’re very excited to have people like you on board. Below you will find program guidelines and useful tips that will help you build a strong relationship with your mentee.

In addition, we included an article on mentoring from the Harvard Business Review that we found to be very insightful. If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions or just want to say hi, feel free to shoot us an email to SBHGEM@gmail.com.

— The SBH Young Professionals Committee

Program Guidelines

1. Initial Introduction: Please make the initial introduction within two weeks of being paired.
2. In-Person Meetings: If your schedule allows, try to meet in person. Otherwise, a phone call is great.
3. Set Parameters: During your first meeting, agree on how often you'll talk (e.g., every 2-3 weeks via email/phone).
4. Confidentiality: At SBH, confidentiality is a top priority. Please keep all information about your mentee private.
5. Bias-Free Guidance: Help your mentee evaluate options rather than making decisions for them.
6. Not Placement: You are not required or expected to find your mentee a job. Refer them to SBH Career Division if they need placement help.

Topics to Approach With Caution

Religion: As an Orthodox Jewish organization, refrain from advice that violates Shabbat or Kashrut. Suggest consulting a Rabbi for religious questions.
Marriage/Family: Career paths may impact family planning. Try to be non-committal and non-judgmental. Refer to SBH Social Workers if deeper guidance is needed.

Five Critical Mentoring Questions

Inspired by framework from Harvard Business Review. Ask these questions in order for a powerful diagnostic session:

1. Aspiration

What is it that you really want to be and do?

2. Core Strengths

What are you doing really well that is helping you get there?

3. Roadblocks

What are you NOT doing well that is preventing you from getting there?

4. Behavioral Change

What will you do differently tomorrow to meet those challenges?

5. Your Role

How can I help / where do you need the most help?

What Makes a Good Mentor?

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Mentors Listen: Maintain eye contact and give full attention.

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Mentors Guide: Help find direction without pushing.

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Mentors Practical: Provide insights on task management and goal setting.

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Mentors Educate: Share knowledge about life and career paths.

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Mentors Accessible: Be available as a resource and sounding board.

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Mentors Constructive: Critique behavior, never character.

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Mentors Supportive: Encourage growth despite challenges.

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Mentors Specific: Give clear, actionable advice.

Connect With Us

Facebook.com/SBHGEM Twitter: @SBHGEM Instagram: @SBH_GEM