Benefits

What sets AAPM&R's Virtual Mentoring program apart is the ability for real-time mentoring. Through the virtual platform, you will receive guidance, education, and advice from mentors when you need it - often, in just 24 hours.

The scope and focus of mentoring relationships will vary for every mentor-protégé pair, as it will reflect the individual needs of the participants, but generally, protégés will:

• Receive feedback on their performance and suggestions on how to improve, and learn skills needed to be successful.
• Build a partnership that focuses on personal and professional development.
• Be challenged to grow in a safe environment.
• Receive information or an opinion about what another person should do in a specific academic or personal matter. A protégé will receive honest input on handling difficult situations.

Protégés should:

• Discuss expectations
• Be receptive to feedback and constructive criticism
• Be respectful of mentor’s time
• Take initiative
• Establish clear and well-defined objectives
• Send an agenda in advance so your mentor can have time to contemplate your concerns
• Follow through with mentor suggestions and report back in a timely manner on outcomes
• Report back if advice you’ve received has proven successful
• Look for opportunities to teach your mentor
• If the relationship isn’t a good fit, let the mentor know that you’re thinking about going in a different direction. Thank for guidance so far; go out on a positive note.