The role of the mentor
Why do you need a mentor?
Your mentor is there to provide you with the
support you may need throughout this three-month challenge.
You will be introduced to your mentor at your
launch event, and as a team you should then arrange a series of
meetings throughout the challenge.Your mentor will have experience
of the world of business and will provide objective advice on your
business plan.
After your enterprise is up and running, your mentor may barely
need to intervene; however, they will be available to you
throughout the course of the challenge as a support whenever you
should need them.
Business plans had to be written, market
research completed and sales orders taken, all before the end of
term deadline. This developed into a real challenge for the
teams.
- Pat Conn OBE, Business mentor
2008
Your mentor is many things
- A Source of Knowledge. Your mentor is an
expert in business and can always be turned to for advice on
business issues such as marketing, production, business planning,
simple finance and accountancy.
- A Consultant. Remember this is your
enterprise. Your mentor is your guide, and can provide a range of
options, inspire and encourage innovative thinking, but it is up to
you to make the final decisions.
- A Motivator. University Million Makers is
running to a tight time scale and from time to time your mentor may
need to instil a sense of urgency, revitalise team spirit and raise
morale.
- A Facilitator. University Million Makers is an
exciting way to learn with positive outcomes for The Prince’s
Trust. Mistakes are allowed, and you learn by doing. Your mentor
will help you to reflect upon these and move on.
Your mentor is external to the university and not a member of
staff. Any internal issues should be directed to a member of
staff.
To find out more or put forward a team, please get in touch with
your Prince’s Trust representative or contact getinvolved@princes-trust.org.uk
or 020 7543 7420