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Mentoring Program

The NIBA College mentoring program is for young brokers, insurers, and associated professionals across the insurance industry.Our mission  statement is:

To empower “Young Professionals” through mentoring partnerships with supportive and motivating industry role models to develop focussed goals and directions and to strive for higher levels of performance.

Program Schedule

 

 

Applications from both mentors and mentees are open for our next program which will begin in both Sydney and Newcastle in March, 2010.

 

Mentors and mentees in brokerages, insurance offices, and associated businesses across the industry are eligible to participate in this exciting initiative. Applications from women mentors are especially welcome.

To find out more about the program please read the Frequently Asked Questions below. To apply download the application form from the How to apply section. If you would like to find out additional information you can email the members of the mentoring committee, or you can call Caroline Campbell direct on 02 9459 4313 on Wednesdays to Fridays.

Overview

The goal of our program is to give Young Professionals a greater understanding of the issues facing our industry and a supportive environment that will motivate and assist them in both their personal and professional development.

After a survey in late 2007 in which over 90% of respondents indicated an interest in participating in a formal mentoring program NIBA College decided to tap the depth of knowledge and expertise which has built up in our industry over many decades.We will begin with a pilot program in the Sydney metropolitan area in August 2008 and then propose to hold two programs a year, eventually rolling it out to all states in Australia.

The program is coordinated by the NIBA College mentoring committee, which is made up of representatives from NIBA’s Young Professionals committee, industry practitioners, and NIBA College. Committee members are:

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Participation in the mentoring program attracts a CPD rating of 4-6 hours for both mentors and mentees. To be eligible for CPD points participants must complete the program, provide evidence of their learning and development outcomes, and give a final presentation at the concluding workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mentoring?

Mentoring is to encourage and support Young Professionals to manage their own learning, maximize their potential, and develop their skills and performance. Mentoring can be defined as a two – way partnership which may encompass coaching, role modeling, supporting and appraising, or being a buddy depending on the needs of the mentee and the capabilities of the mentor.

Who can be a Mentor?

NIBA identifies mentors who have a broad range of life and work experiences and display a strong understanding of our industry’s issues. It is vital that mentors are committed to the personal and professional development of their mentee and are prepared to be involved in all aspects of the program. Mentors are required to abide by the NIBA Mentoring Code of Practice at all times.

Who can be a Mentee?

NIBA identifies mentees as Young Professionals either in or entering the insurance industry. For the mentoring process to succeed mentees need to take responsibility for their own learning and development, be open to different perspectives, take on the challenges and tasks set as part of the program, and be able to accept appropriate feedback and coaching.

Who decides who will be admitted into the program?

The NIBA College mentoring committee reviews all applications and oversees the matching process.They will advise you if you are accepted into the program.Please note that applying does not mean automatic acceptance, but if you are not accepted the first time around your application will be considered for participation in future programs.

How are the mentors and mentees matched?

The NIBA College mentoring committee will review all applications submitted by both potential mentors and mentees. They will be matched according to participants’ objectives and backgrounds. This is an industry-wide program and the committee will only match participants where there is no obvious potential conflict of interest. As an additional safeguard the mentee’sworkplace supervisor/employer will be advised of the mentor who has been matched with their staff member.Their consent is required before the program commences.

Can this be used as an employment program?

NO, this program is strictly designed as an industry program. Mentors are not there for career consultation. It is expected that mentors and mentees are professionals and respect their colleagues in the industry.All participants must adhere to the guidelines and the program Code of Practice.

Is there a cost to be involved in the program?

NIBA College provides this program at no cost to you or your employer. However, because your time and commitment is required, please ensure that you discuss this with your employer.We require the permission of mentee’s workplace supervisor/employer to participate in the program.

What is required of me?

Attendance - Both mentors and mentees are required to attend all the workshop sessions in the program.

Time - Meetings between mentors and mentees are flexible and should be arranged by mutual consent. From the experience and recommendations of previous program participants mentors and mentees should plan to meet every week for approximately 1 hour during the 12-week program.

Where do we meet?

The meeting location is decided between the mentor and mentee. The location should be convenient and time effective for all parties. (The structured workshop will be held in your CBD.You will be advised of these before the program commences).

What is the process for the program?

The program will run for 12 weeks. During this time there are three structured sessions which all mentors and mentees are required to attend. All participants receive a program handbook which has been designed as a platform to guide you through the program.

Program Structure

Introductory Workshop & Drinks

Week 1

Mentor/mentee meetings

Week 2-4

Workshop 2

Week 5

Mentor/mentee meetings

Week 6-11

Final Workshop and BBQ

Week 12

Why is a progress log/diary required?

The NIBA College mentoring program is a Professional Development Program which attracts CPD points.Evidence of time spent and learning outcomes achieved is therefore required to meet your annual training requirements for ASIC and NIBA membership. Learning logs are also a good way for you to reflect on the activities and strategies that have been productive throughout the mentoring process. They will also assist with your end of program presentation.

What happens if I have a conflict with my mentor/mentee?

A member of the mentoring committee will be in contact with you within the first month of the program. This is an opportunity for you to raise any concerns or provide feedback on the program. You can, of course, contact a committee member at any time during the course of the program.

Can I withdraw from the program at any time?

The mentor or mentee can withdraw from the program at anytime by providing notice in writing. An exit meeting is also required. However, as numbers are limited, we expect you complete the program in good faith.

How to apply

Please complete either the mentor application or the mentee application and return it

via email to: mentoring@nibacollege.com.au,

by mail to:NIBA College Mentoring, Level 18, 111 Pacific Highway, North Sydney NSW 2060

We would like to thanks our sponsors