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Mentee FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a Career Mentee?

Career Mentees are new or recent immigrants who have the language, knowledge and business experience to succeed in the workplace, but need the opportunity to get their foot in the door. A Career Mentee is an individual who wants to work with an experienced individual; seeking information, knowledge, advice and support required to achieve certain career goals.

Who can apply to become a Career Mentee?

Mentees:

  • are landed immigrants or permanent residents
  • are unemployed or underemployed
  • are actively searching for employment in their occupation
  • have the English skills required to perform effectively in the workplace (usually Canadian Language Benchmark level 7 or higher or equivalent)
  • have education and 2+ years of experience in their field outside of Canada
  • OR are changing careers in Canada and have the education to support the change
  • have a job ready resume and have completed (or willing to take) a job search workshop
  • have no or limited work experience in their field in Canada
  • are willing to get their educational qualifications assessed (e.g. IQAS)
  • have time to commit to a mentoring relationship and some availability during business hours

What help does the mentee get from the mentor-mentee relationship?

The mentor-mentee relationship is often the first link in a newcomer’s professional network that opens doors to employment opportunities for them. Mentors can help a mentee in several ways including:

  • Understanding of Canadian workplace culture
  • Enhanced professional development
  • Increased confidence
  • Self marketing techniques
  • Goal setting – career development objectives

How to apply?

How long will I have a mentor for? How many hours a week are involved?

Mentees and mentors meet for 6 hours a month for a total of 24 hours over a 4 month term. This works out to approximately one and a half hours per week. Mentors and mentees meet during regular business hours.

Do I meet with my mentor in person?

It is recommended that you meet in person; however, there will be times when on-line or phone communication will be more convenient for both of you.

What is occupation-specific mentoring?

Occupation specific mentoring involves connecting professional newcomers (mentees) with established Canadian professionals (mentors) in both the public and private sectors who share the same occupation.

How will I be matched with a mentor?

Mentors and mentees are matched based on shared educational background, similar work experience and common career goals.

What support and resources are available for mentees?

Orientation: Mentees participate in an initial orientation session that outlines roles, codes of conduct and expectations of the mentorship relationship.
Intercultural Workshops: Mentees and mentors attend one workshop a month over the four month span to explore Canadian workplace culture.
Support materials: include the Mentorship Handbook and the Mentorship Activity Roadmap

Will my mentor find me a job?

No, the objective of the mentoring relationship is to prepare you for job readiness by exposing you to professional networks and advice. Your mentor will help guide you and provide advice in many areas, but you are responsible for your own job search.

What if I find a job during the program?

If you find work in your field during the program, we will celebrate you! You and your mentor can then discuss if you both would like to continue the program. If you both choose to continue the program, it may be possible to continue to meet weekly, or it may be more convenient to have telephone or email contact instead. It would be a great opportunity to have the support of a mentor during your first few weeks/months of a new job. The mentor could be a great source of support and information for questions that arise for you in your new job.

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