- I have just completed my application form, now what?
- Will it cost anything?
- How can I get Continuing Education “CE” credits?
- How can I get the Certificate of Completion for the Mentorship program?
- How long do I have to commit to the program?
- I don’t have the answer to a challenge a mentee is facing, what should I do?
- I am matched up now what?
- I am enthusiastic about the program, but fear that I may not be able to do much for my mentee. I don’t want the experience to be a disappointment.
- I’m afraid I’ll have nothing to say at our meetings; what do I talk about?
- I understand that the partnership lasts for six months, what if my partner and I wish to continue beyond that point?
- What if we don’t hit it off right away?
- What if, for some reason, I can’t mentor anymore?
- What if my mentee and I have bad chemistry?
- Not sure if you have the skills to be a Mentor?
1. I have just completed my application form, now what?
The OCA will then carefully review your answers and will match candidates based on location, expertise and experience. We will then inform you of your mentee or mentor via email. The OCA does not guarantee you will be matched due to varying factors.
2. Will it cost anything?
There is no fee involved. Subject to OCA approval incidental expenses such as telephone cost will be covered by the OCA. Ask an OCA representative for more information.
3. How can I get Continuing Education “CE” credits?
The CCO has approved the OCA Mentorship Program as a means to obtain Continuing Education “CE” credits upon completion of the program. Participants are asked to maintain a log of their activities and documents throughout the program for administrative purposes. For further details on how to earn your CE credits please refer to the CCO Handbook.
In order to obtain a certificate of completion for the Mentorship program, participants are required to meet at a minimum once a month with a six month commitment. This will be determined after reviewing the completed final evaluation forms.
4. How can I get the Certificate of Completion for the Mentorship program?
A Certificate of Completion will be provided to participants upon concluding their six month mentoring period. This certificate recognizes mentees and mentors who have dedicated time to help build the chiropractic profession. In order to be awarded this certification, the participant must:
- Attend or view recording of the orientation mentorship meeting
- Meet a minimum of six hours (one hour each month for the continuous six month period)
- Complete and submit the following forms to the OCA:
- Mentor-Mentee Relationship Agreement
- Mid-Evaluation form
- Final Evaluation form
5. How long do I have to commit to the program?
By participating in the OCA Mentorship Program, you are making a six month commitment with the aim of meeting a minimum of once every month.
This commitment is reflected in the Application Agreement which you are required to sign upon applying for the program. As participants in the program, you and your mentor are bound to conduct yourselves in a professional manner that entails mutual respect and confidentiality. The OCA offers the Mentorship Program as a volunteer, community-based initiative for chiropractors and assumes no responsibility in the case of interpersonal professional issues that may arise.
6. I don’t have the answer to a challenge a mentee is facing, what should I do?
A mentor is not someone who knows all the answers. Let your mentee know you don’t have an answer right now but will get back to them. In the meantime to help find the right solution, choose one of the following options: connect with other colleagues, work with your mentee to find a solution, and speak with an OCA staff to get further assistance.
7. I am matched up now what?
It is the mentee’s responsibility to initiate contact with you. The mentee must arrange a convenient appointment date/time, either in person, video conference, telephone or by email. Visit the I am signed up, now what page for further details.
8. I’m enthusiastic about the program, but fear that I may not be able to do much for my mentee. I don’t want the experience to be a disappointment.
Most mentors feel that way; however, your cumulative experience, your professional network and your access to information are invaluable resources for a mentee. Visit the Tools and Resources page on ways to further assist you throughout the program.
9. I’m afraid I’ll have nothing to say at our meetings, what do I talk about?
The onus is on the mentee to identify areas for discussion. Active listening and commitment are your key levers for success. Visit the Meeting Resources page for tips on what to look for during the meetings.
10. I understand that the partnership lasts for six months; what if my partner and I wish to continue beyond that point?
Partners who wish to continue may do so by informal arrangements.
11. What if we don’t hit it off right away?
It’s not easy to trust a stranger. It may take a while to build up trust. Don’t interpret caution as a rejection. A mentee may not show it, but your help is definitely wanted. Visit our Communication tips page for helpful hints on how to communicate with each other.
12. What if, I can’t be a mentor anymore?
Mentoring is a deep commitment. Please try to honor your commitment. Should it be absolutely necessary for you to withdraw from the program, please contact OCA staff at oca@chiropractic.on.ca to ensure a smooth transition.
13. What if we have bad chemistry?
Any professional relationship has the potential for unresolved conflict. If you find that you are not a good match, please contact OCA staff at oca@chiropractic.on.ca immediately.
14. Not sure if you have the skills to be a Mentor?
Take the Mentor test which will automatically analyze your response to let you know your mentorship potential.