Mentorship

Being involved in mentorship can be an invaluable experience for both parties. We intend for this process to be largely independent, reliant on the initiative and organisation of both the mentors and the mentees.

What to expect?

Mentoring relationships are personal and unique to the parties involved, so no two relationships will be the same. This programme relies on participants taking initiative and making the most out of it themselves. However, we can offer some guidelines as to what to expect in your role.

We recommend an initial period of 12 months for the mentorship, with the option of continuing for longer if agreed by both parties.

Firstly, both participants should:

• Tailor the mentoring relationship to work for both parties
• Agree to manner and frequency of communication and respond in a timely manner
• Respect the privacy and schedule of the other party by setting clear boundaries
• Treat the mentorship as confidential where appropriate

How does the matching process work?

Participants will be matched by Dr. Ben Bowers, Forum Convenor, who will be assisted by Lucy Pratt, Forum Co-ordinator. We will try and match people up based on research interest and mentorship styles where possible. Please note that you may not be matched with a partner straight away due to uneven numbers of sign-ups.

To sign up to be a mentor, click here or to sign up to be a mentee, click here. Please only sign up if you have a real interest and the capacity to be involved in this programme.

For mentors

In signing up to be a mentor, you will be seen as a more experienced researcher or academic who is willing and able to pass on the benefits of your knowledge and experience.

Each mentoring relationship will be unique to the participants, but some of your role may include:

• Listening to your mentee and being supportive
• Providing non-judgemental support and guidance on issues raised
• Clarifying research/career goals of mentee and helping them achieve their personal and professional objectives
• Passing on your research knowledge and experience
• Ensure the relationship is one of coaching rather than supervision

For mentees

In signing up to be a mentee, you will have the chance to work with an experienced researcher or academic.

Each mentoring relationship will be unique to the participants, but some of your role may include:

• Listening to your mentor and respecting their input
• Going into conversations expecting coaching and not supervision
• Discussing your research/career goals and how to achieve your personal and professional objectives
• Being flexible and open to considering different opinions and ideas
• Asking for help when you need it.

If your mentor relationship and meetings aren’t working out, discuss this with your partner first. Talk it through and be honest. Sometimes mentoring relationships do not work out for both parties. Once this initial conversation has taken place, the QNI Community Nursing Research Forum staff can offer support.

Contact us:

• Dr. Ben Bowers
• Lucy Pratt