How To Launch Your Mentor Program

Failure to properly launch a new mentor program will cost valuable time and yield less-than-desirable results. A good launch program will have the following components:

• Clear/full support from company leadership.
• Communication plan for all employees.
  • Start date.
  • Expected results with timeline to include a measurement system.
  • Clear expectations from each role involved.
  • Outline of training support.
  • Critical rationale for the program.
  • Gainsharing, if applicable.

A continuous improvement component must be added to your program such as Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA):

• Plan:  Identify an opportunity and plan for change.
• Do:  Implement the change on a small scale.
• Check:  Use data to analyze the results of the change and determine whether it made a difference.
• Act:  If the change was successful, implement it on a wider scale and continuously assess your results. If the change did not work, begin the cycle again.

There are many continuous improvement models which can be effective. The key is to make the program better all the time. Getting technicians and frontline managers involved in this process will help solidify changes, help shop employees take ownership and help create a culture of change. Include your mentor in the interviewing process for technicians. This will help ensure you hire the right person and help engage your mentor. Be certain to train mentors on interviewing skills.