ACDA Expectations of Mentors and Apprentices

What is Expected of Me as a Mentor? 

Our mentors say that one of the best aspects of volunteering with ACDA is that it is flexible – you and the apprentice can decide how the relationship will work. We do, however, have some minimal expectations of our mentors, including the following: 

  • Spend at least two hours per month building the mentoring relationship. 
  • Set expectations with the apprentice for how and when you will contact each other. 
  • Help your apprentice identify and set goals. Track progress and make changes as needed (use our Mentoring Agreement as a reference). 
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with an open mind, professionalism, and respect. 
  • Support the apprentice's professional and personal development. 
  • Respond to all communications in a timely manner. 
  • Maintain and model professional behavior. Define professional behavior if needed. 
  • Communicate problems with the mentoring relationship to ACDA mentoring program staff at [email protected]. 

What is Not Expected of Me as a Mentor? 

  • To offer jobs or internships to your apprentice. 
  • To have all the answers for your apprentice. 
  • To initiate all contact with your apprentice. 

What is Expected of the Apprentice? 

Before an apprentice can search for a mentor, they must review the materials contained in the ACDA Mentoring Guide – For Potential Apprentices. The apprentices are informed of our expectations, which include the following: 

  • Spend at least 2 hours per month building the mentoring relationship. 
  • Make the first contact with the selected mentor and respond to all communication. 
  • Set specific goals for the mentoring relationship with mentor. 
  • Agree and commit to expectations and goals set with the mentor. 
  • Be appropriate in your requests of your mentor, in particular do NOT ask for a job. 
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with an open mind, professionalism and respect. 
  • Be receptive to suggestions and feedback. 
  • Communicate problems with the mentoring relationship to ACDA mentoring program staff at [email protected].