Mentoring programme
About the programme
Every year, the French Chamber's mentoring programme matches ambitious young professionals with senior business executives as part of a two-way learning experience to further careers and enrich understanding.
The guidance given by a senior mentor can go a long way in helping a young mentee navigate the early stages of their career and understand the nuances of the business world.
Similarly, mentors are often looking to enrich their own professional experience by offering their advice and learning from tomorrow's talent.
Every year, application to the mentoring programme starts in mid-July. Limited places will be served on first-come, first-served basis.
The 2022 edition will be open to application soon in July.
Why should you join?
- Guidance for those new to the workforce: The guidance given by a senior mentor can go a long way in helping a young mentee navigate the early stages of their career and understand the nuances of the business world.
- Professional advice from high-profile business executives: A rare opportunity for young professionals to meet experienced executives for knowledge sharing, skills and experience to assist their mentee’s progress in their own life and career.
- Link with the future generation: By pairing with a young professional, mentors will be able to gain a new perspective on the ambitions and expectations of tomorrow's talent.
Who can join?
The mentoring programme is for French Chamber members only.
Mentees: Young professionals (who are less than 30 years old) with at least one year of significant work experience
Mentors: Senior professionals with more than 15 years of work experience
How does it work?
Step 1: Applications open until 16 September 2022
Step 2: Mentors/mentees select their top 5 profiles among the list
Step 3: Speed matching cocktail session (mandatory for all participants)
Step 4: Mentors/mentees select their top 3 profiles after the cocktail session
Step 5: Mentor/mentee’s confirmation upon receiving the final pairing result
Step 6: Mentors and mentees undergo separately a one-hour introduction training led by a mentoring expert
Step 7: Monthly one-on-one meetings between mentors and mentees for the following 9 months
Step 8: A gathering session in January to share their experience and progress with each other
In July, mentors and mentees will get together for a final celebratory cocktail with all the other pairs to wrap up the programme.
What past participants say about this programme
“It may appear unbelievable, but mentoring is as valuable and inspiring for mentors just as it is for mentees. I was paired with a compatible partner, from our frequent exchanges throughout the year, we both got valuable insights into a different generation. This mentoring programme at the French Chamber works well to put the right people together.”
John Miers (Mentor)
Founding Partner
Black Isle Global
“During this 10-months exchange, I built a strong and trusting relationship with my mentor. She helped me improve my self-confidence and advised me on obstacles that I encountered at workforce. She is a mentor but also a reliable friend, accompanying me at this turning point of my life. The relationship with my mentor was based on mutual exchange, I was also glad to be able to provide her the support she needed, share my ideas and thoughts, and help her better understand the younger generation in her organisation.
The sessions with my mentor were always valuable, sincere, judgement-free and productive. I am really glad to have met my mentor through this programme and we will keep in touch without a doubt.”
Marine Alaouchiche (Mentee)
Deputy Attaché for Science & Technology
Embassy of France in China