Mentorship Program Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program The YES Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program aims to increase the success rate of start-up entrepreneurs by providing them the knowledge and expertise they need to make good business decisions on their own. Novice entrepreneurs are matched with experienced business people who can provide support, guidance and encouragement. The program is goal-based, which means that mentees work toward achieving specific goals established at the start of the relationship. Mentees If you are a start-up entrepreneur, and are interested in the YES Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program, you must: Meet with the YES Business Coach to determine eligibility Have an existing business for which you work full-time Have a business that has been in operation for less than 5 years Mentors If you are an experienced entrepreneur, are interested in volunteering your time as a mentor, and you have: Technical knowledge of your field of expertise Strong interpersonal skills Strong leadership skills Patience An interest in the development of others A willingness to learn and to be challenged   Please contact the YES Mentorship Program Coordinator at (514) 878-9788 x 311 or by e-mail at sweir@yesmontreal.ca to discuss how you can help. Mentors and mentees of the YES Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program must commit to the following: To a mentoring relationship for a minimum of one (1) year To meet with your mentor/mentee at least once a month for 1-2 hours To participate in a mid-term and end-of-term evaluation process To participate in training sessions and other events throughout the year   Visit our links under Entrepreneurship Weblinks for more information on mentoring. About Mentoring A mentor is an adviser, teacher and role model. A mentee is willing to learn and to develop skills that will help them make good business decisions. In order to understand mentoring, it is important to understand the roles of both the mentee and the mentor, as well as the basic principles of mentoring. Role of the Mentee: Be aware of your strengths, weaknesses and professional goals Be pro-active and take an active role in the mentoring relationship Ask questions and listen carefully to your mentor's responses Be willing to learn and share your experiences honestly Be prepared for your meetings and follow through on advice given by your mentor Show appreciation to your mentor   Role of the Mentor: Be a role model Share your knowledge and entrepreneurial experiences Challenge and encourage the mentee to succeed both professionally and personally Provide sound guidance and constructive feedback to the mentee   Principles of Mentoring: A mentor is a role model Mentoring is given freely and is freely received Mentoring relationships are built on trust and honesty Mentoring partners treat each other with respect Successful mentoring relationship focus on the mentee as the learner Mentoring is rewarding, satisfying and enjoyable for mentors and mentees   For more information on the YES Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program, please contact the Mentorship Program Coordinator at (514) 878-9788 x 311 or by e-mail at sweir@yesmontreal.ca