Regardless of the style of program you choose, you can run it in a variety of timeframes. Each of these schedules could be paired to any type of mentorship structure, but some pair better. There is no correct method of scheduling, and there is likely one that best fits with your organization and how you would administer the mentorship program.

Open Timeframe

The open timeframe is the most flexible schedule. Your participants can be matched to a mentor whenever they come to you for mentorship support. This means you can support a new mentee right away, and they do not need to wait until the next mentee intake date. To be able to do this, you will need a ready pool of mentors who are able to start any time.

An open timeframe works best when you have:

  • A one-on-one program structure
  • Small intakes and the ability to easily administer multiple intakes
  • A pool of mentors who are available to be matched at any time
  • The ability to run orientations for people new to your community or organization

Set Timeframe

The set timeframe defines a clear start and end date for a mentoring program. Often programs run from six months or for a full year. In a set time frame, you start a group of mentors and mentees at the same time and they end at the same time. During the program, the participants set their own meetings based on the program expectations for frequency.

A set timeframe works best when you have:

  • One-on-one, group, or hybrid program structures
  • To match a pool of mentors and mentees one-on-one
  • A mentor and mentee orientation that can be completed as a group
  • Participants who prefer clear expectations for start and end dates
  • Other programs or events that can run in alignment with the program

Programming Model

A program lends itself best to group mentoring systems. Like a set time frame it has a formal start and end date. A program model would also set a regular time and location for a group to meet, which can work well for scheduling and setting participant expectations. With a program, there is often a more formal curriculum that the group will cover during the program.

A program model works best when you:

  • Are doing group and peer mentoring
  • Are trying to schedule in experts to present to groups
  • Have a set curriculum or formal information that you want to deliver to your mentees

Create a Mentorship Program

Are you ready to create a mentorship program in your community? Contact us to start the process.