Guidance for Mentees
- Review the Network Mentor Database.
- Identify one or two professionals to reach out to.
- Is that professional working in a career you are interested in?
- Think about why you are interested in reaching out to that professional.
- If you can’t think of why you are reaching out – don’t reach out.
- Determine how they want to be contacted. Email or text.
- If so, approach the professional with the requested communication method indicated in their profile in the database.
- Try limiting introductory emails and texts to a brief paragraph, using essential language.
- Request a meeting.
- Ensure you have looked at your calendar and you have a few possible days/times available to suggest to the possible Mentor.
- Include an introduction, why you are reaching out to the Network Member and why you are interested in their field (a few lines) and don’t forget to thank them in advance.
Suggestions for the Meeting
- Be candid about the challenges you have faced in your job search.
- Ask the Mentor about their career.
- Listen carefully and ask follow‑up questions.
- Focus your attention on the Mentor.
- Limit sharing personal information/stories and instead focus questions / conversation on professional-related content?
- Plan to take notes.
- Stop the meeting if not feeling able to continue. The Mentor will understand.
Advice for Mentors
Below are suggestions to create a meaningful connection with the Mentee during the first meeting. Note: Many times, people with autism have communication challenges. Hopefully these ideas will “break the ice”.
- After introductions the Mentor shares their professional and personal background.
- How did you enter your career and how have you grown in your profession?
- Talk about your career path. Provide insights into the impact of that path on your career.
- If you feel comfortable reflect on how your career has impacted you personally. The fulfilling and challenging aspects of your career.
- By sharing about oneself it helps to build an open relationship with the mentee.
- Also, explain why you are participating in the Neurodiverse Employment Network.
- It can be difficult for the Mentee to identify their questions.
- The Mentee may not return text or phone calls. (Drop another note if needed)
- And…There are a variety of needs among neurodiverse people. Be flexible.
- Also, use a mood evaluation scale to determine if the Mentee is in a place to talk when the meeting happens. Ready, willing and able to receive ideas, advice and information.
- Scale of 1-5. How are you feeling today? (mood evaluation)
- If less than 4 maybe reschedule the meeting.
- Goal is for the Mentee to be in a place to receive the feedback in the most positive way.
- The Mentee may not look you in the eye. Look down or left / right.
- Body language is sometimes unexpected. (For example: Fidget with hands)
- Candance to voice – goes fast / goes slow.
- Mentee may talk loud or soft.
- The Mentor may feel the need to interrupt but don’t – just wait.
- Mentee may not appear fully on camera.
- Mentee may pace when speaking.
- Energy can be different. (Not good or bad, just different)
- Can have high energy at one moment and lower energy the next hour.
- Reaction to things may be magnified or not – depending on mood.
Note: All of the above are ideas for starting the conversation. No need to cover all if the conversation is connecting and comfortable. Also note: Verbiage to use – neurodiverse people identify as having less needs or more needs concerning their disability and accommodations.
Tips for a Successful Mentoring Experience
How do I find a mentor?
Use our easy search and filter tools to browse experienced mentors by industry, expertise, or career focus. Once you find a potential match, you can view their profiles for more details.
Is there a cost to use Mentor Database?
YES. Mentors may offer paid sessions, but many provide initial advice and guidance at no cost.
How do I connect with a mentor?
After finding a mentor who fits your needs, simply send a connection request through the platform. You’ll be able to message and schedule sessions once your request is accepted.
What should I expect from a mentoring session?
Mentors share industry knowledge, career advice, and professional guidance tailored to your goals. Sessions can be one-time or ongoing, depending on your needs and the mentor’s availability.
Who can become a mentor?
Our mentors are industry professionals and experts passionate about supporting career growth. If you have relevant experience and want to give back, learn more about joining as a mentor on our platform.