Definition of a mentorship program

Mentorship is the process of knowledge sharing between an experienced individual (mentor) and a novice or beginner (mentee) seeking to gain new insights or skills in their field of choice. This could be career advice, transitioning advice, interview techniques, portfolio reviews, etc.

Unlike other instructional methods like teaching or lecturing, a mentorship program involves extended two-way communication between the mentor and mentee. It is an arrangement that thrives on discussion, questioning, and sharing to the point where the mentee’s goals are reached or their concerns are addressed.

Being a versatile concept, a mentorship program can take multiple forms. It could be an individual one-on-one situation or a group mentorship. It could happen in person or transcend geographic boundaries and take place online. A distinguishing feature of any kind of mentorship is that it adds long-term value and vision to the mentee’s career and life.