What does it take to be an AMINZ Mentor?

Eligibility

A mentor must be a member of AMINZ. It is important that the member has the appropriate professional knowledge, experience and skills to become a mentor. The member must be interested in being a mentor and passionate about the programme and be prepared to commit valuable time and energy to the mentee. Previous mentoring experience is not a prerequisite.

Being a great mentor

Great mentors share knowledge, experience and act as a guide and wise counsel to a mentee. It is not meant to be a burden or take up unreasonable amounts of time.

Great mentors listen, reflect, summarise and act as a mirror for their mentee – they may help their mentee to approach an issue from a different angle or provide them with knowledge or resources that can allow them to develop their thinking about the profession and career pathways within it.

The role of the Mentor

The mentoring relationship should be both supportive and encouraging of the mentee’s development. However, mentors are not expected to solve the mentee’s problems. The mentee should be encouraged to discover solutions to the problems themselves under the guidance and support of the mentor. The mentor is someone who can provide a helpful “sounding board” for the mentee in advancing his/her professional development.

The role of a mentor involves:

Committing to and making time for the mentoring relationship
A willingness to impart formal and informal knowledge
Encouraging development
Sharing honest and objective guidance
Being approachable and friendly
Active listening
Making suggestions without being prescriptive
Sharing stories
Identifying and exploring problems
Appreciating differences and demonstrating respect when beliefs, attitudes and value differ from your own.
Assisting in clarifying the mentee’s goals and development needs and providing direction

Signing Up

  • Complete the Mentor Application Form

  • The Mentoring Committee will approve the mentoring application at its discretion.

  • Mentors will need to have an up-to-date ‘Find a Professional’ listing on the AMINZ website.  If you require assistance with this, please contact institute@aminz.org.nz.

The highest level of professional conduct is expected between the parties. Respect, honesty and professionalism is expected throughout the duration of the programme.

If you are not sure if you will make a good mentor or have questions, please contact the General Manager.