Introduction BOMA New York’s mentorship program was created to assist members who are new to the commercial property management industry (mainly Emerging Leaders) and would benefit from a mentoring relationship. The sustainable success of any industry relies upon leveraging and sharing the invaluable wealth of knowledge of seasoned professionals with members newer to the industry. The intent of the program is to match enthusiastic but less experienced new members with a seasoned, well experienced property management professional. Mentor / Mentee relationships have proven to be extremely effective in many industries by simply sharing knowledge. Why Have a Mentorship Program? Mentorship programs:
Increase job retention in the industry
Give support to young professionals
Pass on valuable knowledge to the next generation of commercial real estate leaders
Provide a sounding board and professional advice
Promote individual learning and growth
Provide insight and guidance
Program Intent The intent is for the Mentees to have a sounding board who they can reach out to on matters such as: overall career direction including but not limited to career development, industry trends, educational opportunities, industry advice or guidance. This program is not intended to be a counseling service but one where a less experienced person can discuss how they can become a valuable asset, and to have a planned pathway to a rewarding career. While the program may afford an opportunity for some mentees to advance in their careers through the connections they make, the main goal of the program is education and not career networking. The main goal of the program is to create and foster a professional and personal relationship that will continue even when the program ends.
Eligibility
Available to BOMA New York Emerging Leaders, who are 35 years of age or under and/or have 5 years or less experience in commercial property management.
Mentors may either be a current or recently retired employee of a BOMA New York member company. Please see the Mentor Information document for further details.
Program Format Duration: Each mentoring relationship is for one year. Success will only be realized if both parties feel the sessions are powerful, effective, poignant and progress is being made. As a result, BOMA New York requires both Mentors and Mentees to be willing to commit one full year to the program. Interaction: Between four and six meetings for at least one hour each. Minimum of four meetings. Recommendation: 1 x 60 minute session every two months. Meeting Format: Sessions can be a combination of telephone and in-person. Recommendation: As many in-person sessions as possible, and whatever method best serves both parties.
How the Program Works
1. Submit your mentor application or mentee application form to BOMA New York. 2. BOMA New York will match mentors and mentees and send an introduction via email to both parties. If a match is not possible, BOMA New York will advise the mentee. 3. Attend the BOMA New York sponsored “Kick-off” meeting for an introduction. 4. The mentee and mentor can schedule their introductory session at the kick-off meeting. The Introductory Session is not considered part of the four to six mentoring sessions. 5. Mentee and mentor schedule their first mentoring session (to occur within two months of the Introductory Session). Continue to schedule all other sessions themselves. 6. Mentors have access to a Mentor Network. 7. Questions and concerns sent to BOMA New York throughout the program will be addressed immediately. 8. Participants will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the program after their program has been completed.
Matching Mentors with Mentees BOMA New York will match a mentor with a suitable mentee based on objectives and skill sets. The Mentor / Mentee must meet in person for an initial Introductory Session at the Kick Off Meeting to discuss the number, frequency and format of the sessions, and get to know each other. If BOMA New York is unable to find an appropriate match, the mentee will be notified.
Keys to Success
Confidentiality – there must be a level of trust between the mentor and mentee. This is based upon mutual trust and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality of the topics discussed.
Commitment from mentor and mentee to set aside the minimum amount of time required for the sessions and give one another their full attention.
When a mentee has clear and concise objectives, i.e. “I would like to be promoted to a senior property management position within five years.”
Establishing what the mentee wants to gain from the program at the Introductory Session.
Mentors who have a desire to help others (see Mentor Information document for more qualities).
Mutual respect – providing each other with a reasonable amount of notice if a session must be cancelled, and re-scheduling the session quickly.
Understanding and maintaining professional boundaries.
How to Get Involved Mentors: Step 1: Read Mentor Information HERE Step 2: Complete the Mentor Application
