Program Participation
Participation in the VHMA Mentor Match Program is voluntary and intended to support professional connection and development within the veterinary management community. While VHMA facilitates mentor matches, the success of the relationship depends on the commitment, communication, and engagement of both participants.
Participants are encouraged to contact VHMA staff if questions or concerns arise during the mentoring experience.
Mentee and Mentor Responsibilities
Successful mentoring relationships are built on mutual respect, communication, commitment, and shared accountability. The VHMA Mentor Match Program is designed to create meaningful professional connections that support growth, learning, and leadership development for both mentors and mentees.
To help ensure a positive and productive experience, participants are encouraged to review and commit to the following responsibilities.
As a mentee, participants are expected to:
- Take Initiative
- Be proactive in scheduling meetings and maintaining communication
- Come prepared with questions, topics, or goals for discussion
- Follow through on agreed-upon action items
- Be Open to Feedback
- Receive constructive feedback with professionalism and openness
- Reflect on advice and perspectives shared during conversations
- Ask questions and seek clarification when needed
- Respect the Mentor’s Time and Expertise
- Arrive prepared and on time for meetings
- Communicate promptly regarding scheduling changes
- Value the mentor’s experience and contributions
- Define and Pursue Goals
- Identify areas for growth and development
- Be willing to discuss challenges honestly
- Take ownership of personal and professional progress
- Maintain Professionalism and Confidentiality
- Respect the privacy of conversations and shared experiences
- Communicate respectfully and professionally
- Help create a positive, collaborative mentoring relationship
As a mentor, participants are expected to:
- Be Available and Engaged
- Respond to communication requests in a timely manner
- Commit to regular meetings or check-ins throughout the mentoring relationship
- Be fully present and engaged during conversations
- Share Knowledge and Experience
- Offer insight based on personal and professional experience
- Provide honest, constructive feedback
- Encourage problem-solving and critical thinking
- Foster a Supportive Environment
- Create a safe, respectful, and confidential space for discussion
- Listen actively and without judgment
- Support the mentee’s goals, growth, and professional development
- Encourage Professional Growth
- Help the mentee identify strengths, opportunities, and goals
- Share resources, ideas, and networking opportunities when appropriate
- Encourage confidence, leadership development, and continued learning
- Maintain Professional Boundaries
- Respect confidentiality and privacy
- Communicate professionally and respectfully
- Recognize that mentorship is a partnership, not supervision or consulting
Shared Expectations
Both mentors and mentees are encouraged to:
- Communicate openly and honestly
- Establish goals and expectations early in the relationship
- Respect differing perspectives and experiences
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism
- Commit to creating a positive and productive experience for one another
Mentorship works best when both participants are actively engaged and invested in the relationship’s success.