Mentoring

What to do: Establish a long-term relationship that will provide a student with ongoing career support and encouragement within your company. Over time, a mentor will help a student become accustomed to the rules, norms and expectations of the workplace. He or she will also provide career insight and guidance based on personal experience. A mentor may engage in a wide range of involvement, from simply providing the student with a "buddy" to offering intensive, structured work experiences.

Duration: Depends on individual needs.

Grade level: Most appropriate for high school- through college-age students.

Purpose:

• Provides a learning/support activity, not an actual job.
• Provides a youth with an adult who will serve as an adviser and coach.
• Offers career insights and imparts how basic skills relate to success.

Keys for Employers:

• Be aware of your legal responsibilities in serving as a mentor to youth — the same guidelines as those for your employees.
• Seek guidance from your school liaison in how to communicate and work with young people. Be aware that young people often have unrealistic expectations and attitudes about the workplace.
• Try to offer activities that will help your student develop workplace skills and career insights.
• Be direct with your school liaison about any concerns or questions you may have.
• Stay flexible and open to change

Programs Involving Students

Career Exploration

Employability Skills Training

Field Trips/ Company Tours

Job Shadowing

Internships

Mentoring

Programs Involving Educators

Externships for Educators

Company Visits

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