Project Mentoring
In project mentoring, an experienced project leader supports a less experienced person. The mentor advises from their own practice; responsibility for the project stays with the mentee.
Explained simply
Many retail projects are led by staff who are doing it for the first time. They know the business, but not every project method. A mentor shares their experience so that typical mistakes never happen.
The person being supported is called the mentee. Mentor and mentee meet regularly. They discuss questions such as: How do I plan realistically? How do I deal with a supplier who misses deadlines?
An example: a store manager takes charge of introducing a new merchandise management system. A mentor helps her set up the plan and the steering committee. The steering committee is the body that takes the important project decisions.
What does this mean for your business?
Project mentoring strengthens your own people instead of replacing them with external project leaders. The knowledge stays in the company. It is worth it when the subject knowledge is there, but project experience is missing.
Typical occasions are a first large IT project, a new project lead or a project that has stalled. Mentoring can also complement an external project lead. Your team then learns during the project. Trust matters: mentee and mentor talk openly about mistakes and doubts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between coaching and mentoring?
How does mentoring work?
How JJW helps
IT projects in retailJeremy James Wilhelm mentors project leads, on project methods and on working with people.
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