UPDATES TO THE MENTORING PROGRAM

 The SGA Mentoring Program Coordinators have developed a new format for the mentor program, to be launched at the Annual Meeting in November. In addition to the traditional mentor program, we have added three additional pathways that cater to different membership needs. The new pathways are:

TRADITIONAL PROGRAM - In this pathway, protégés  and mentors work together for a six- or nine-month period. This pathway is best for those interested in working on long-term goals such as securing employment or changing positions, workplace effectiveness and communication strategies, and general career advancement advice.

SITUATIONAL PROGRAM - This program is designed to connect anyone at any point in their career with other professionals for advice and support on specific workplace projects or challenges. Topics may include grant writing, content management software implementation or migration, planning digitization projects, navigating departmental reorganization, managing changes in management or supervisory status, promotion and tenure advice, and other situations of limited duration. Professionals will be connected based on experience and willingness to participate in the program.

LEADERSHIP SHADOW PROGRAM - One of the best ways to develop leadership skills is to learn by doing. In this program, participants shadow SGA leadership members over the course of six-months to a year by participating in leadership meetings and working closely with leaders as they fulfill their roles. This pathway builds participants’ resumes and prepares protégés to assume leadership positions in any professional organization, including SGA.

NEW PATHWAYS GROUP - This program consists of semi-structured interactions with a cohort consisting of other new professionals and seasoned mentors to facilitate advice and information on the profession, the job market, and professional development opportunities. This pathway is ideal for those new to the archival profession, including students or those making a change from another career path, or archivists who are new to Georgia or the region.

We are excited by these program changes and hope they will be considered an additional benefit for SGA members.

The SGA Mentoring Program is just one of the many benefits available exclusively for SGA members. Joining the program means you will have the benefit of the vast experience of SGA’s professional archivists working throughout the state. The Program is for all members, at any stage of their career, from those just entering the work force to those who are changing tracks or taking on new responsibilities such as management. 

The importance of mentors in our lives and careers cannot be overstated. Professional archivists face many challenges and having a mentor or someone you can turn to for advice or help in developing skills and strategies can make all the difference in the world.

Take it from some of our mentors about the importance of their mentors: “At every step of my career I've had amazing mentors that have helped me grow, develop, and reflect on this profession.” “I have been mentored several times throughout my career and it has shaped where I am today.” “…it's invaluable to have someone outside of your workplace that you can turn to with questions great and small.”