As a mentee in a mentoring circle, your role is to learn with and from your peers. You’ll engage in open conversations, share experiences, and support one another’s growth in a collaborative setting. This is not a traditional one-on-one mentoring relationship — instead, circles thrive on mutual exchange, where everyone contributes and everyone benefits. By showing up, listening actively, and respecting your peers, you’ll help create a space where meaningful learning and connections can happen.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
1. What is a mentoring circle?
A mentoring circle is a small group of peers who come together regularly to share experiences, exchange ideas, and support each other’s growth. Each circle is guided by a Circle Lead who facilitates discussion.
2. What are the benefits of a mentoring circle?
Participating in a Mentoring Circle offers mentees the chance to learn from the diverse experiences of peers, build meaningful connections across the organization, and explore career development opportunities in a supportive environment. Mentees gain practical insights, increase their confidence, and strengthen communication skills while working toward personal and professional goals.
3. What is my role as a mentee?
Your role is to actively participate, share your perspective, listen to others, and contribute to creating a supportive learning environment.
4. How much time should I expect to commit?
Most circles meet twice a month for 90 minutes. Some light preparation (such as reflecting on discussion prompts or reading materials) may be encouraged. Over the course of the program, approximately 12 hours of your time will be needed.
5. Do I get assigned a mentor?
No. Unlike traditional mentoring, circles are designed for peer-to-peer learning. Everyone contributes — and everyone learns. You will be assigned to a circle, with four - five of your peers, and two Circle Leads who will facilitate discussions.
6. How are topics chosen?
Circle Leads will guide the process with a focus on career development, relationship-building, and adapting to the organizational culture. At the same time, participants will have the opportunity to shape discussions based on the group’s collective interests and professional needs. To support this process, the program uses Chronus, a mentoring software that provides recommended agendas and professional development resources to help guide conversations.
7. What if I can’t make a session?
Please let your Circle Lead and group know ahead of time. Consistency helps circles thrive, but we understand schedules sometimes conflict.
8. What if I feel uncomfortable sharing?
Participation is encouraged but always voluntary. You can learn just as much by listening as by speaking, and no one is required to disclose anything personal.
9. Who do I contact if I have concerns?
If issues arise, you can reach out to your Circle Lead or the EDW team for support.
1. What is a mentoring circle?
A mentoring circle is a small group of peers who come together regularly to share experiences, exchange ideas, and support each other’s growth. Each circle is guided by a Circle Lead who facilitates discussion.
2. What are the benefits of a mentoring circle?
Participating in a Mentoring Circle offers mentees the chance to learn from the diverse experiences of peers, build meaningful connections across the organization, and explore career development opportunities in a supportive environment. Mentees gain practical insights, increase their confidence, and strengthen communication skills while working toward personal and professional goals.
3. What is my role as a mentee?
Your role is to actively participate, share your perspective, listen to others, and contribute to creating a supportive learning environment.
4. How much time should I expect to commit?
Most circles meet twice a month for 90 minutes. Some light preparation (such as reflecting on discussion prompts or reading materials) may be encouraged. Over the course of the program, approximately 12 hours of your time will be needed.
5. Do I get assigned a mentor?
No. Unlike traditional mentoring, circles are designed for peer-to-peer learning. Everyone contributes — and everyone learns. You will be assigned to a circle, with four - five of your peers, and two Circle Leads who will facilitate discussions.
6. How are topics chosen?
Circle Leads will guide the process with a focus on career development, relationship-building, and adapting to the organizational culture. At the same time, participants will have the opportunity to shape discussions based on the group’s collective interests and professional needs. To support this process, the program uses Chronus, a mentoring software that provides recommended agendas and professional development resources to help guide conversations.
7. What if I can’t make a session?
Please let your Circle Lead and group know ahead of time. Consistency helps circles thrive, but we understand schedules sometimes conflict.
8. What if I feel uncomfortable sharing?
Participation is encouraged but always voluntary. You can learn just as much by listening as by speaking, and no one is required to disclose anything personal.
9. Who do I contact if I have concerns?
If issues arise, you can reach out to your Circle Lead or the EDW team for support.
Mentee DO's ✅
- Be engaged: Show up prepared and ready to participate. - Listen actively: Give others your full attention and respect their perspectives.
- Contribute openly: Share your experiences, insights, and questions.
- Support peers: Encourage others and help create a safe, inclusive space.
- Respect confidentiality: What’s shared in the circle stays in the circle.
- Stay curious: Approach discussions with an open mind and willingness to learn.
Mentee DON'Ts 🚫
- Don’t dominate discussions: Make space for all voices. - Don’t multitask: Give your full attention to the group.
- Don’t dismiss others’ experiences: Respect that everyone brings unique perspectives.
- Don’t share confidential information outside the circle.
- Don’t expect answers: Circles are about shared exploration, not one-way mentoring.