What is mentoring?

Mentoring can be an effective way of helping professionals enter into employment and progress in their careers. The IES Mentoring Scheme is for IES members on the ‘Back to Work’ and ‘Into Work’ Schemes, establishing partnerships between graduates and professionals seeking work and experienced members currently working in their chosen field.

Why become a Mentee?

Mentees are IES members who have recently graduated or are unemployed and are seeking work in the environmental sciences or sustainability fields. Becoming a Mentee will give you the opportunity to:

• receive industry-specific advice on career planning and progression in their chosen field;
• gain recruitment advice, including input into CVs and interview processes;
• identify skills needs; and
• receive advice on where to search for potential job opportunities.

Why become a Mentor?

Mentors are Full Members or Fellows of the IES, with at least four years of experience working in environmental sciences. Becoming a Mentor will give you the opportunity to:

• develop your coaching and leadership skills;
• contribute to your Continuing Professional Development (CPD);
• gain insight into current issues in the employment market and potential recruitment opportunities; and
• share your experiences of the industry.

Establishing partnerships

Mentees will be matched with an environmental professional currently working in their chosen field within environmental sciences, e.g. air quality, contaminated land etc. Other criteria considered in the creation of partnerships are sector (public, private or third sector) and location. Participants are provided the option to be matched with someone of the same gender.

The IES Mentoring Scheme is:

• Flexible: The needs of Mentees and the capacity of Mentors will differ and so the scheme is flexible to allow these to be best met. Mentors and Mentees can opt out at any stage simply by contacting the IES Project Office.
• Low on bureaucracy: The professional world is a busy place, and so the scheme involves minimal paperwork for all involved.
• Confidential: All information discussed within the partnership is confidential.
• Safe: Guidance on safety information is available to download.
• Developmental: With benefits for both Mentor and Mentee.
• Supportive: Numerous resources published on the website and office support available.

To find out more about the scheme download the information packs or contact the IES Project Office.