The Northern Hospital ED Mentoring Program Introduction for Mentees Dr Louisa Lee July 2014

What is Mentoring? A mentoring relationship - two individuals of differing levels of experience and expertise are paired together for the purpose of growth, guidance, support and development.

What is a Mentor? Someone who takes a special interest in the professional development of a less experienced colleague A mentor acts as a: – Trusted and experienced advisor – Counsellor – Guide – Tutor – Coach – Role model

Why Have a Mentoring Program? Substantial evidence that a well designed mentoring program can improve workplace productivity Current poor retention rates – Effect on remaining junior doctors Suboptimal staff morale Increasing workplace stress High incidence of burnout Accreditation requirement

Potential Benefits to Mentees Personal development Professional development – Develop professional behaviour and identity – Gain better understanding of the ED – Career advice & networking opportunities Being able to work through issues in a non-threatening environment Having a role model Assistance in goal setting and guidance achieving goals Improve problem solving skills Increase confidence and leadership skills Skills upgrade & knowledge transfer

Mentoring is NOT… Clinical supervision – Although roles may overlap Discipline Performance assessment Performance management

Characteristics of Successful & Failed Mentoring Relationships Successful Trust – confidentiality Caring Mutual respect Clear expectations Personal connection Shared values Failed Poor communication Lack of commitment Personality differences Perceived/real competition Conflicts of interest Mentor’s lack of experience

Features of the Northern ED Mentoring Program Voluntary Mentees choose their mentor Mentor training Mentoring Program Co-ordinator No-fault opt out policy Confidentiality protocol Scheduled “First Meeting” – Mentoring Dinner – Tuesday, 2 nd September, 2014

How to be a Good Mentee Be responsible for your own development – Schedule regular meetings – Identify goals, priorities and career interests Be respectful of meeting times Communicate openly and honestly Be open to feedback Be an active listener

What now? Complete the pre-program survey Complete the Mentee Application Form if you want to participate Return all paperwork to the Mentoring Paperwork box on windowsill of the ED consultant workspace by Friday, 1 st August Request the night of Tuesday, 2 nd September off!

Any Questions?