The University has recently launched MentorNet, a user-friendly digital mentoring tool used by organisations across the world.
What is mentoring?
Mentoring is a powerful method of professional development which can benefit individuals across all job roles and functions, within any department or discipline. Sussex has an active central mentoring programme open to all staff. The most common mentoring relationships are between a more experienced person (the mentor) and a less experienced person (the mentee). However, mentoring can also be a developmental relationship between peers.
Designed like a social networking site, MentorNet allows mentors and mentees to create a user profile. Mentees can search for and create meaningful matches with their Mentors - often selected from another School or Division and slightly ahead of the mentee in their career.
Organisational Development Consultant, Sam Bates, said: “MentorNet streamlines our central staff-to-staff mentoring programme here at Sussex.
“We tested it with key stakeholders and the feedback was resoundingly positive. People found it a really useful tool - intuitive and easy to navigate. Mentees and mentors have more freedom to find a match and run their own relationships. As HR progresses with its digital transformation, MentorNet allows us to spend less time on forms and more time innovating.
“The new tool offers secure communications, document sharing, and a dedicated resource sections – including TED talks and information on training and qualifications with industry bodies. Mentoring could be just the catalyst your career is waiting for – so why not give it a go.”
How does MentorNet work?
Mentors set up a profile and choose how many people they would like to mentor - the default is set to three. Mentees set up a profile then search for and match with prospective mentors. Our administrators review and confirm any matches. Then successful matches can begin their relationship.
Getting started
If you are interested in becoming a mentor or a mentee, or would benefit from a refresher, please sign onto one of our workshops starting on 10 October.
After completing the relevant development session, you will receive a MentorNet sign-up link. Please note, those currently signed up to the Mentoring Programme will be sent sign-up links, so if you are already a member of our central scheme, we will be in touch soon.