Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the journey of growth, inspiration, and transformation. This program is a beacon of opportunity where dreams take flight and careers reach new heights.

Remember that a successful mentoring relationship is a partnership, and the mentor and the mentee play vital roles in its effectiveness.

• What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a developmental relationship where a more experienced person (mentor) offers guidance, support, and encouragement to a less experienced person (mentee). The mentor shares their knowledge and expertise to help the mentee grow and develop personally and professionally.

Here's a breakdown of the critical aspects of mentoring:

• Relationship: Mentoring is more than just giving advice. It's a supportive and trusting relationship where both people learn and grow from each other.

• Guidance and Support: Mentors provide direction, feedback, and encouragement to help their mentees navigate challenges and make informed decisions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Mentors share their experience, skills, and insights to help their mentees develop their knowledge and abilities.

• Development: Mentoring aims to help the mentee grow and reach their full potential. This can include career development, personal growth, or skill development.

Mentoring can be formal or informal. Formal mentoring programs often occur within organizations, where senior employees are paired with less experienced colleagues. Informal mentoring relationships can develop organically through personal or professional connections.

• What happens when I join IBIC? 

  • You are matched (mentor<->mentee) based on interests, expertise, and goals.

  • You are part of a pre-defined program structure for guidance and focused mentorship.

  • You have opportunities to connect with members through workshops or networking events.

  • You become part of the IBIC tribe and get to collaborate and learn from a community of women changemakers.

• What are the benefits of joining IBIC?

Participating in IBIC offers numerous benefits, including access to guidance from experienced professionals, opportunities for skill development, networking opportunities, career advancement support, and increased confidence and motivation.

• How does the matching process work?

The matching process involves matching mentors and mentees based on their career goals, life interests, industry experience, personality traits, and availability. 

• Is there a cost to join?​

Please contact us via Contact us.

• Is IBIC only for technology professionals?

No - it is for all women in any professional domain - 18+ years 

• How can I invite my friends to join IBIC  as a member?

We love referrals, as it is the core of our vetting process. Provide referrals via Contact us.

• Is IBIC a registered non-profit?

No. We are not a non-profit.

• Can I donate to IBIC?

Your hours to support the cause will be greatly appreciated. Please contact us via Contact us.

• How do I edit my profile? How to make changes to my onboarding information? 

Please reach us via Contact us.

• How can I provide feedback on the mentorship program?

Your feedback is valuable! Share your thoughts and suggestions via Contact us.

• How should I handle challenges or disagreements during the program?

If challenges arise, such as communication issues or mismatched expectations, you must address them openly and constructively with your mentor or mentee. Program coordinators or facilitators can assist and guide in resolving conflicts or concerns.

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Mentee:

Setting Goals and Expectations

• How can I define clear goals for the mentorship program?

Work with your mentor to define SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) that align with your career or personal development aspirations.

• What if my goals change over time?

It's okay for your goals to evolve! Discuss any changes with your mentor; they can help you adjust your goals or approach.

• What if I don't know what my goals are?

Your mentor can help you explore your interests, identify potential goals, and develop a plan to move forward.

Communication and Feedback​​​

• What is my mentor's area of expertise?

The program coordinator will provide this information during your initial meeting with your mentor.

• What resources are available to me?

The program coordinator or your mentor may recommend books, articles, websites, or other resources to support your development.

 

Mentor:

• Why should I be a mentor?

Becoming a mentor can be incredibly rewarding. It allows you to share your knowledge and experience and positively impact someone's life, develop leadership skills, gain fresh perspective, and contribute to the success of others. 
Professional Development:

• Sharpen your skills: Mentoring allows you to revisit and solidify your knowledge and expertise as you explain them to your mentee.

• Develop leadership skills: Guiding and supporting someone else helps you hone your communication, coaching, and problem-solving abilities.

• Expand your network: Mentorship programs often connect you with other mentors and professionals in your field, potentially leading to new collaborations.

• Increase your visibility: Being a mentor can enhance your reputation as a leader and subject matter expert within your industry.

Personal Growth:

• Gain a fresh perspective: Seeing the world through your mentee's eyes can spark new ideas and challenge your assumptions.

• Boost your confidence: Sharing your knowledge and experience can be empowering and contribute to a sense of accomplishment.

• Develop empathy and patience: Mentoring requires active listening and understanding, helping you grow your emotional intelligence.

• Experience the joy of giving back: Helping someone else achieve their goals can be an enriching experience.

Additional Benefits:

• Stay current in your field: Mentorship encourages you to stay current on the latest trends and developments in your area of expertise to guide your mentee effectively.

• Improve your communication skills: Effectively explaining complex concepts and providing constructive feedback strengthens your communication abilities.

• Strengthen your time management skills: Mentoring often involves scheduling regular meetings and providing feedback, requiring effective time management.

• What can you expect from a mentee?

  • Come prepared to the meetings with specific topics or questions to discuss.

  • Be open to feedback and willing to learn.

  • Take initiative and be proactive in achieving your goals.

  • Communicate openly and honestly.

  • Be respectful of your time and expertise.

Remember: This is a general FAQ. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your program coordinator or mentor.