In our pilot programmes, the team conducted a virtual introduction event, where both mentors and mentees were able introduced to each other on Zoom using breakout rooms.
It is important to generate a feeling of community between the community of mentors and mentees. Onboarding sessions support this process as they allow coordinators to introduce the mentorship programme and its aims to the mentor community. Also, as mentors are exposed to their co-participants, they can use the sessions to gain further understanding of each others' expertise and assess if there is a chemistry fit for a productive ongoing relationship.
One way this can be done is by delivering onboarding sessions and workshops for the mentor community using technology, such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom. Mural and Notion are some of the other online platforms that can be used to conduct interactive workshops on a shared virtual workspace. Mentors and mentees can create their online profiles to connect and introduce themselves to each other using applications, such as Slack.
It is recommendation the program kicks off with an introductory 'welcome' newsletter, which includes the key programme details, as well as mentee/mentor profiles, will help mentees understand their cohort better.
Furthermore, mentors and mentees should be encouraged to introduce themselves to one another and participate in virtual Ice-Breakers using technology platforms, such as Slack and Mural.
Finally, creating an official introduction event, whether it be virtual or in-person, will provide mentors/mentees with the opportunity to interact further.
Virtual Onboarding: How to Get Your New Hire on Board - Online
A Guide to Virtual Onboarding - Purpose HR
