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  1. LEARNING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
  2. Civilian Leader Development and Broadening Programs
  3. Frequently Asked Questions

DOD MENTORING

  • DoD Mentoring Overview
  • Find a Mentor
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Mentee Resources (Coming Soon!)
  • Mentor Resources (Coming Soon!)
  • National Mentoring Month
  • Program Coordinator Resources
  • DoD Mentoring Overview
  • DoD Mentoring Overview
  • Find a Mentor
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Mentee Resources (Coming Soon!)
  • Mentor Resources (Coming Soon!)
  • National Mentoring Month
  • Program Coordinator Resources

QUICK LINKS

DoD MentorConnect (Coming Soon!)

Mentoring Policies and Guidance:

DoDI 1400.25 V410

  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    GENERAL QUESTIONS


    What is mentoring?

    Mentoring is a relationship between two individuals where one person (the mentor) shares their knowledge, experience, and expertise to guide and support the other person (the mentee) in achieving their goals and developing their skills. 


  • What are the benefits of mentoring?

    The benefits of mentoring include gaining new insights and perspectives, developing new skills and knowledge, and achieving personal and professional goals. 


  • What is the role of a mentor?

    The role of a mentor is to provide guidance, support, and encouragement to help the mentee achieve their goals and develop their skills.


  • What is the time commitment required for participating in mentoring?

    The time commitment varies, but mentors and mentees are expected to meet regularly (e.g., monthly) for at least 1-2 hours. Additional time may be required for email, phone, or other forms of communication.


  • Can mentoring meetings occur during official duty hours?

    Yes. Employees are not authorized to perform the duties of a position whose regular worksite is located in the United States at an alternative worksite in a foreign location without an approved DETO agreement. 


  • Am I required to participate?

    No, you are not required to participate in a mentoring program.  Mentoring is purely voluntary, and it's up to you to decide whether you want to take part.



  • MENTORSHIP PROCESS


    How do I find a mentor?

    You can find a mentor on the DCPAS DoD Mentoring “Find a Mentor” webpage.  You can also find a mentor through networking, or asking colleagues or friends for recommendations.


  • What is the first step in establishing a mentorship relationship?

    The first step is to identify your goals and what you hope to achieve through the mentorship.


  • How often should I meet with my mentor?

    The frequency of meetings will depend on your schedule and goals, but it's recommended to meet at least once a month.



  • MENTEE RESPONSIBILITIES


    What are my responsibilities as a mentee?

    As a mentee, you are responsible for being open and honest with your mentor, setting clear goals and expectations, and taking initiative to apply the guidance and advice you receive.


  • How should I prepare for meetings with my mentor?

    You should prepare by setting an agenda, writing down questions and topics you want to discuss, and being ready to share your progress and challenges.


  • What if I don't know what to ask my mentor?

    If you don't know what to ask, start by asking about your mentor's experience and advice on topics related to your goals and interests.



  • MENTOR RESPONSIBILITIES


    What are the responsibilities of a mentor?

    A mentor is responsible for providing guidance, support, and encouragement, sharing their expertise and experience, and helping the mentee set and achieve their goals.


  • How can I be a good mentor?

    To be a good mentor, you should be approachable, listen actively, and provide constructive feedback and guidance. 


  • What if I don't have all the answers?

    As a mentor, you don't need to have all the answers. You can help the mentee find resources and connections to support their goals. 



  • COMMUNICATION AND BOUNDARIES


    How should I communicate with my mentor? 

    You should communicate openly and honestly with your mentor, sharing your progress, challenges, and concerns. 


  • What are the boundaries of a mentorship relationship?

    The boundaries of a mentorship relationship should be established at the beginning, including expectations for communication, meetings, and confidentiality.


  • What if I need to end the mentorship relationship?

    If you need to end the mentorship relationship, you should communicate your decision to your mentor in a respectful and professional manner. 



  • Evaluation and Feedback


    How can I evaluate the effectiveness of the mentorship? 

    You can evaluate the effectiveness of the mentorship by setting clear goals and tracking progress, soliciting feedback from your mentor, and reflecting on what you've learned. 


  • How can I provide feedback to my mentor? 

    You can provide feedback to your mentor by sharing your thoughts and suggestions on how they can improve their mentoring style and support. 


  • What if I'm not satisfied with the mentorship? 

    If you're not satisfied with the mentorship, you should communicate your concerns to your mentor and work together to find a solution or end the relationship. 



For More Information, please contact

Email: dodhra.mc-alex.dcpas.mbx.dod-mentoring-resource-portal@mail.mil
Address:
Defense Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22350-1100

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