Becoming a GEM Mentor

GEM Mentor Role Profile  

Are you passionate about learning and engagement in museums and heritage and supporting others in their professional learning and development journey? 

As mentors we provide a safe, neutral environment and are an unbiased sounding board for new ideas, talk through challenges and celebrate successes. 

GEM Mentors we bring a wealth of different experiences to the mentoring relationship formed.  We take the lead from our mentees through the conversations. 

Key skills that GEM look for within the mentoring framework are 

  • empathy, 
  • compassion, 
  • active listening and 
  • the ability to see things from different perspectives. 

A shared understanding of mentoring 

Mentoring at GEM is described as a one to one development method that is mentee-led. The aim is to support people with learning roles in museums, heritage sites, galleries, libraries and archives at any level or stage of their career. Mentoring can happen outside the line management structure and outside organisational boundaries. 

Requirements of the role 

As a GEM Mentor you will: 

  • Attend 1 “Introduction to GEM Mentoring” workshop. 
  • Hold up to 4 mentoring sessions with your mentor (approximately 1 a month) during each round of the programme. 
  • Attend at least 1 group or individual catch-up meeting with the GEM Mentoring Champion or Mentor Buddy. 
  • Abide by the EMCC Code of Ethics. 

Essential elements of being a mentor 

GEM mentors: 

  • provide a safe, neutral, trusted space 
  • use reflection and questioning to explore and discuss creative solutions. 
  • actively listen with empathy and an open mind 
  • are an unbiased sounding board for new ideas. 
  • are willing to share their knowledge and experience. 
  • guide and signpost to resources and opportunities. 
  • create an uplifting, supportive and sharing environment that enables positive change and individual success. 

Interested in becoming a mentor? 

We’re currently accepting applications for mentors to join the One to One Mentoring Scheme. If you wish to take part, submit the Mentors Application form by filling out this short form. To find out more about the programme, please email [email protected]  

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