The Deloitte 2016 Human Trends research report found that 92% percent of HR and business leaders ranked learning and development as a critical priority, up from 85% last year. The report says that "CEOs and HR leaders are focused on understanding and creating a shared culture, designing a work environment that engages people, and constructing a new model of leadership and career development.”
One of the best ways to build a shared culture focused on engagement and career development is through mentorship programs, and we've already covered the benefits of paid mentorship. So how do you convince your boss to bring a paid mentorship program to your company?
Making the Business Case for Mentorship
Similar to company-sponsored training, you’ll need to make a business case for employer-paid mentorship. Consider the following:
Identify the Benefits
First, identify how paid mentorship will benefit the organization as a whole. How will it positively affect your current projects or role in the organization? How will it ease your transition into a more senior role? The key is to identify the immediate area of impact that can be expected from a mentorship.
Determine Your Goals
You’ll also want to identify specific goals for the mentor relationship. Your manager may have some specific ideas in mind, but you should be proactive and present strategic ideas that your manager can react to and build upon.
What is your company's mission or annual goals, and how could a mentorship program help achieve them? Demonstrate long-term thinking as you outline your goals—your manager will likely only invest in a mentor if they feel you’re going to stick around. Help provide this assurance by including your career goals within the organization. Of course, there are no guarantees you’ll stay forever, but you’re more likely to get approval if your manager feels confident you’re sticking around long after the investment in you is made.
Be Prepared to Talk Money
Finally, be prepared to discuss the cost associated with your ask. How many hours each week or month do you need to spend with a mentor to evoke positive change? Is the mentor you’re eyeing $100 an hour or $500 an hour? Share your research and expect your manager to have additional questions. You don’t have to know all the answers, but you should be prepared to listen, take notes and respond within a reasonable time frame.
What if My Manager Says No?
What if your manager says no? Well, that’s ok. You might need to present more information, show your dedication to your role, or maybe get a better understanding for your manager’s vision of your future in the organization. Either way, take your cues on if the conversation is ongoing or if you should drop it. It’s a great topic to bring up again at a set performance review time.