One to One Mentoring Programme | 2024

“Mentoring is a supportive learning relationship between a caring individual who shares knowledge, experience and wisdom with another individual who is ready and willing to benefit from this exchange, to enrich their professional journey”. Suzanne Faure

What does the One to One programme provide?

One to One mentoring sessions are a safe, confidential space where you are able to have a conversation around professional development and role support.

As a mentee you will have 3 or 4 bookable mentoring sessions (60-90 minutes each).

GEM does its upmost to match you with a mentor based on your identified chosen priority areas. Each mentor brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and skills to the sector and to you.

When does mentoring begin?

Within a few weeks of applications closing we match you with your mentor. You will be sent an introductory email and then it will be up to you to arrange your sessions directly with your mentor.

The next round of mentoring will start in February 2024 and your last mentoring session should be completed by the end of June 2024.

Who is eligible to apply?

Anyone who:

• is (or looking to) work in visitor engagement, learning and/or community engagement within Museums, Galleries, Historic sites and buildings, archives, libraries or places of worship.

• is a GEM member (institutional members are allowed up to 4 mentees per round).

• is at any stage of their career.

How to apply?

Applications open on Monday 8th January 2024 and close at 5pm on Sunday 11th February. Fill out this online form.

“I think one of the most important things about GEM offering programmes such as this one is that the mentors understand the status of heritage engagement (or lack thereof) within our organisations and the wider sector. That’s immensely useful as it cuts out a lot of work to establish the ground we’re starting from.” Mentee

 

 

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.

How are mentees selected?


We aim to match as many mentees with mentors as possible.

If you are unsuccessful in a round of applications, we will keep your details on a waiting list in case a mentoring partnership becomes available.

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].

Museum Development Network also provides a range of support services in your area including mentoring. To find information for your area, please visit their website

 

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