Welcome to the Team Kentucky Mentorship Program! Thank you for volunteering as a mentor and for giving new employees the opportunity to learn from you as an experienced member of Team Kentucky. We appreciate you and the support you provide to this program. If you need anything as you continue through this program, please reach out to your agency's Mentorship Program Coordinator or the Office of Employee Engagement and Training.
Take these essential steps to ensure a successful mentorship:
Following these steps ensures clarity, consistency, and momentum—laying the foundation for a meaningful mentoring partnership.
1. Complete the MyPURPOSE course titled "Overview of TKMP for Mentors and Mentees."
2. Attend the MPC-led orientation to learn about TKMP guidelines, available tools, and program expectations.
3. Review your mentee's profile—including background, goals, and interests—and consult the MPC if questions arise.
4. Schedule and prepare for your first meeting within two weeks of being matched. Agree on confidentiality, meeting frequency, communication methods, and initial objectives.
5. Collaboratively create the Individual Development Plan (IDP), translating broad ambitions into two or three specific short-term goals.
6. Finalize and sign the Mentoring Agreement to clarify roles and focus areas by the second meeting.
7. Set recurring meetings and establish between-session check-in methods. Add all meetings to both calendars.
8. Plan a variety of activities—such as job shadowing, role-playing, resume reviews, or attending events together (e.g. KY LEAD)—using TKMP resources to advance IDP goals.
9. Document meetings and progress using provided templates and submit both midpoint and final evaluations.
10. Reach out to the MPC whenever you need support, including but not limited to scheduling, resources, or guidance.
Mentoring Best Practices and Engagement
To maximize impact, mentors should blend essential skills with intentional, structured activities. By integrating these best practices with varied, goal-driven activities, mentors will build dynamic, trust-based relationships that drive lasting professional development.
Establish Trust and Clarity: At your first session, establish confidentiality, agree on meeting frequency, select preferred communication methods, and set clear development goals.
Practice Active Listening and Feedback: Engage in empathetic, distraction-free conversations, and provide constructive, respectful feedback.
Empower Autonomy and Accountability: Ask open-ended questions, encourage critical thinking, and collaboratively set two to three specific objectives in the Individual Development Plan (IDP). Review progress regularly and adjust milestones as needed.
Model Professionalism and Positivity: Model ethical conduct, strong work habits, and a growth mindset. Celebrate successes, support mentees during setbacks, and consistently maintain a patient, encouraging tone.
Diversify Engagement Activities: Vary meeting formats/logistics such as coffee chats, job shadowing, role-playing, resume reviews, or attending conferences and webinars together to keep discussions engaging and practical.
Maintain Consistent Connection: Schedule recurring meetings, set reminders in both calendars, and agree on methods for checking in between sessions (e.g., brief emails or calls).
Track and Recognize Progress: Use TKMP templates to document meetings and outcomes, submit midpoint and final evaluations, and share achievements with your MPC to reinforce ongoing growth.
Appendix Resources
Mentor Application & Matching Form
Mentoring Agreement Form
Team Kentucky Mentorship Program (TKMP) Individual Development Plan (IDP)
Mentor/Mentee Meeting Log Template
Metrics Tracking Template
Mentor Evaluation Template
Questions?
If you have questions specific to your mentee or your agency's expectations for mentors, please contact your Mentorship Program Coordinator.
If you have questions regarding the Team Kentucky Mentorship Program or other employee engagement initiatives, please contact the Office of Employee Engagement & Training.
