Pitching a Mentoring Scheme

Model answer: Subject: Proposal for a six-month mentoring scheme Dear Ms Aksoy, I am writing to propose the introduction of a structured mentoring scheme for new employees, which I believe would significantly improve how quickly newcomers settle into the agency and begin contributing fully. At present, new colleagues are expected to learn largely by observation. While this works for some, feedback from recent exit interviews and from informal conversations suggests that many feel isolated during their first months, unsure whom to approach with simple questions. This not only affects morale; it also slows down the time taken to become productive. I suggest pairing each new employee with an experienced colleague from a different team for the first six months. The pair would meet for an hour every two weeks, with a short, optional check-in by message in between. Mentors would not be expected to supervise the newcomer's work; instead, their role would be to explain unwritten conventions, introduce people across the agency and offer an honest, informal sounding board. A brief guide and a one-hour briefing would prepare the mentors for the role. It may be objected that experienced designers can hardly spare the time. Admittedly, the scheme would take roughly two hours a month from each mentor. However, this is likely to be offset by the hours saved when newcomers no longer interrupt several colleagues with the same questions, and mentoring can also be counted towards the mentor's development goals. As a next step, I would suggest a pilot with the next four recruits, followed by a review after six months. I would be happy to prepare the details if you are in favour. Yours sincerely, Deniz Arslan