Welcome to our mentoring programs FAQ!
 
This page contains frequently asked questins and is organized by categories to help you navigate and find the answers to your question. 
 
Please note we are not able to respond to questions that are already covered here. Please only initiate a contact request if you have read the FAQ and your question is not answered. 

PDUs and Contact Hours

As a PMP how many PDUs (Professional Development Units) will I earn?

PDUs are self-reported through PMI. The Chapter does not track or collect the attendance of Mentors or Mentees. PDUs can be claimed where 1 hour = 1 PDU.

https://ccrs.pmi.org/claim

I am working on obtaining my PMP designation, can I claim mentoring as part of the required 35 contact hours of Project Management Education towards my PMP qualifications?

No. Unfortunately, mentoring programs do not qualify for the 35 contact hour requirement.  This portion of the PMP Certification examination application is specifically focused on structured learning programs addressing specific PM knowledge areas exemplified by a classroom setting. A classroom setting specifically focuses this portion of the PMP Certification examination application on structured learning programs addressing specific PM knowledge areas exemplified.

How will the Mentoring PDUs be tracked and awarded?

PDUs are self-reported through PMI. The Chapter does not track or collect the attendance of Mentors or Mentees. 

PDUs can be claimed where 1 hour = 1 PDU.

https://ccrs.pmi.org/claim

How do I get my PDU’s?

PDUs are self-reported through PMI. The Chapter does not track or collect the attendance of Mentors or Mentees.

PDUs can be claimed where 1 hour = 1 PDU.

https://ccrs.pmi.org/claim

To which category do the earned PDUs apply?

PDUs are self-reported through PMI. The Chapter does not track or collect the attendance of Mentors or Mentees.

https://ccrs.pmi.org/claim

PDUs can be claimed where 1 hour = 1 PDU.

 

Mentors:

  • Claim PDUs under "Share Knowledge"option
  • These PDUs do not have a category
  • PMI will review, approve, reject, or audit at their discretion

 

Mentees:

  • Claim PDUs under "Informal Learning"
  • The category can be any of the available ones, as long as it matches the description / self-report write-up of the sessions and topics. PMI will review, approve, reject, or audit at their discretion

 

 

Sing-up and Login

How do I sign up for the program?

 

Ensure the following:

 

1. You are a PMI Toronto Member for at least 45 days before signing up.

2. Use the same email linked to your PMI.org profile.

3. Use DESKTOP browser, mobile or phone browsers aren't fully compatible at this time.

4. Visit this link, and type in your email: https://pmitoronto.tenthousandcoffees.com/signup

5. You will receive an email with a link to log-in to the platform, there is no password to remember or reset. Do not share this link as it is direct access link to your profile.

6. Select mentor or Mentee during sign up process.

7. Complete profile - these profile details are used to find matches between mentors and mentees.

 

How do I sign in to the platform?

Ensure the following:

1. You are a PMI Toronto Member for at least 45 days before signing up.

2. Use the same email linked to your PMI.org profile.

3. Use DESKTOP browser, mobile or phone browsers aren't fully compatible at this time.

4. Visit this link, and type in your email: https://pmitoronto.tenthousandcoffees.com/login

5. You will receive an email with a link to log-in to the platform, there is no password to remember or reset. Do not share this link as it is direct access link to your profile.

General Program Information

Who is eligible to participate in the program?

All PMI Toronto Chapter members are eligible to participate as either mentors or mentees. Please note that there is a 45-day waiting period from the date of joining or renewing your membership before you can access the platform.

Are there any costs or fees associated with participating?

At this time, the pilot program is offered as a member benefit at no additional cost. However, this is subject to change as we evaluate the program’s sustainability and learn from the pilot phase.

Can I participate in multiple mentoring relationships at the same time?

Mentees can only participate in one mentoring relationship at a time.

Mentors, however, may have the opportunity to support multiple mentees. If you are a mentor and are interested in taking on an additional mentee, please contact us to learn more. Keep in mind that this depends on your capacity and commitment, as there is typically a shortage of mentors relative to mentee demand.

Can I rejoin the program in the future if I have to leave now?

Yes, you can rejoin the program in the future if you need to leave now. Simply ensure that your PMI Toronto Chapter membership remains active. When you're ready to return, you can re-enter the matching pool and the algorithm will attempt to find a suitable match based on mentor availability and your profile.

Can I access recordings or materials from program orientation sessions?

Currently, there are no recordings or orientation sessions available as part of the program.

Program Details

Does the platform provide templates or suggestions for discussion topics?

Yes, the platform provides content and discussion topic suggestions ahead of each session via email. This content is also available directly on the platform, allowing mentors and mentees to progress through the program at their own pace.

If you choose to progress faster than the regular schedule, you will still receive the scheduled emails. These can be ignored if you have already moved ahead.

How long does the program last?

The program is currently designed to include one session per month, with a total of six sessions, making the expected duration approximately six months.

However, participants have the flexibility to adjust their meeting schedule. You can fast-track the program by meeting more frequently or catch up on missed sessions as needed.

Please note that the program’s structure may change as we gather feedback from the Pilot program and make improvements.

Does the program include a set curriculum or materials?

The program offers a basic curriculum and reading materials to help guide participants. However, you are encouraged to tailor your experience based on your specific goals and needs.

Collaborate with your mentor or mentee to agree on how to proceed and prepare for your sessions. This flexibility allows you to make the most of the program while addressing individual development areas.

Can I participate in the program if I live outside the region?

Yes, you can participate in the program if you live outside the region, as long as you are a PMI Toronto Chapter member. Since the program is conducted virtually (optional to meet in person), participants from various locations can connect without geographical restrictions.

Are there networking opportunities beyond the mentor/mentee relationship?

Yes, in addition to the mentor-mentee relationship, we will soon be launching an “introductions” program. This feature will allow members to be introduced to one another once per month, creating additional networking opportunities. Stay tuned for more details as we roll out this initiative!

Is participation in the program recognized or certified by PMI?

No, participation in the program is not formally recognized or certified by PMI or the PMI Toronto Chapter. This program is provided as a member benefit on a member-to-member community platform. PMI Toronto does not provide warranties or guarantees regarding the quality of matches, the mentoring experience, or the content of the program.

Participants engage in the program at their own discretion, and PMI Toronto is not liable for any outcomes or expectations arising from the mentoring relationship.

Is the program inclusive of diverse backgrounds and industries?

Yes, the program is designed to be inclusive of participants from diverse backgrounds and industries. The matching algorithm takes into account the preferences and profiles of mentors and mentees to create meaningful connections. Participants are encouraged to leverage the diversity of experiences to gain broader perspectives and insights during their mentoring relationships.

Are there any recommended resources or reading materials for mentors/mentees?

Yes, recommended materials are available within the platform and are also sent via email ahead of each session. These resources are designed to guide and support your mentoring journey.

Additionally, mentors and mentees are welcome to craft their own program or use external resources to tailor the experience to their needs. Be sure to discuss and agree on the approach with your mentor or mentee.

Can I progress through the program at a faster pace if my mentor/mentee and I agree to an accelerated schedule?

Yes, you can progress through the program at a faster pace if both you and your mentor or mentee agree to an accelerated schedule.

Please note that you will still receive scheduled emails as if you were progressing at the standard pace, but these can be ignored if you have already moved ahead.

Matching

How are matches determined?

Matches are determined using an automated process powered by the 10kc platform. The algorithm considers:


1. Information provided in your profile, including preferences, goals, and areas of expertise or interest.


2. The availability of mentors, as there are typically more mentees than mentors in the program.


3. Program-specific criteria, such as shared industries or professional backgrounds, where possible, based on the pool of mentors and their profiles.

How often does matching occur?

Matching occurs once per week, based on the availability of mentors in the program. The frequency ensures that mentees have an opportunity to be matched as soon as a suitable mentor becomes available.

Is the program firstcome, first served?

No, the program is not first-come, first-served. Matches are determined based on the compatibility between mentors and mentees, as assessed by the 10kc platform’s algorithm. The process ensures that each pairing is meaningful, fair, and aligns with the profiles and preferences of participants where possible.

What happens if I have not received a match?

If you have not received a match, it may be due to the limited availability of mentors compared to mentees. The program’s algorithm will continue to evaluate your profile and preferences against the pool of available mentors during subsequent matching cycles. You will be notified as soon as a suitable match is found.

Be sure to keep your profile updated to increase the likelihood of a potential match.

Can I request to be matched with someone from a specific industry or background?

While you cannot directly request a specific mentor or mentee, the matching algorithm considers the preferences and details you provide in your profile. This includes your industry, background, and areas of interest. The program will do its best to match you with someone aligned with your goals, based on the pool of available participants.

What happens if I want to change my match?

If you wish to change your match after the program has started, you can request to release the match by contacting support@tenthousandcoffees.com . Before proceeding, we encourage you to have an open discussion with your match to address any concerns, as many participants find value in continuing the relationship despite initial doubts.

Once the match is released, your profile will return to the matching pool. The algorithm will attempt to find a new match during subsequent cycles, but a rematch is not guaranteed due to the availability of mentors and mentees.

What happens if I feel my match isn't compatible after a few sessions?

If you feel your match is not compatible after a few sessions, we encourage you to discuss your concerns openly with your mentor or mentee. Many relationships improve as participants get to know each other better and adjust their approach.

If the relationship still doesn't feel like a good fit, you can request to release the match by contacting support@tenthousandcoffees.com. Your profile will return to the matching pool, and the algorithm will attempt to find a new match during subsequent cycles. However, please note that a rematch is not guaranteed due to the limited availability of mentors relative to mentees.

Will I be notified when I receive a new match?

Yes, you will receive an email notification from the platform when a new match is made. The email will include details about your mentor or mentee and instructions for initiating contact.

Participation

What should I do if I receive no response from my mentor or mentee?

If your mentor or mentee is unresponsive:


1. Follow up with them through the 10kc platform or email.


2. Consider reaching out via LinkedIn if their profile is available.


3. Be patient and allow time for a response, as they may not check their email frequently, or the message might have landed in their spam folder.

 

If you are unable to contact them for 30 days or more, you can request to release the match by contacting support@tenthousandcoffees.com. Please note that there are always more mentees than mentors, so a rematch is not guaranteed. If released, your profile will return to the matching pool, and the algorithm will attempt to find a new match during subsequent cycles.

My mentor/mentee is no longer on the platform. What happens now?

If your mentor or mentee is no longer on the platform, your match will be automatically released. Your profile will return to the matching pool, and the algorithm will attempt to find a new match during subsequent cycles. Please note that there are typically more mentees than mentors, so a new match is not guaranteed and subject to mentor availability.

I don't want to continue with my current match. What are my options?

If you're unsure about your current match, we encourage you to continue for a few sessions. Many participants find that the mentoring relationship becomes valuable, even if it wasn't an ideal fit at first.

If you absolutely cannot continue, please:


1. Inform your match that you wish to end the mentoring relationship.

2. Contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com with the details of your request and confirmation that you have informed your match.

Once your match is released, your profile will return to the pool for potential rematching. However, a new match is not guaranteed, as it depends on the availability and profiles of mentors and mentees.

If you wish to withdraw entirely from the program, you may also request that support@tenthousandcoffees.com delete your account.

I can no longer participate in the program. How can I be removed?

If you can no longer participate in the program, please contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com and request to be removed. You may also ask for your account to be deleted if you do not plan to rejoin in the future.

If you have been matched, please also inform your match as this affects them too. Mentees may wait multiple months to find an available mentor.

My mentor/mentee is not in the same industry as me. How should I proceed?

While your mentor or mentee may not be in the same industry, many participants find that cross-industry mentoring provides valuable perspectives and insights. Focus on transferable skills, such as leadership, communication, or career development, which can apply across industries. Discuss your goals and experiences openly to identify areas where your mentor or mentee can offer guidance or learn from you.

If you have specific industry-related questions, your mentor or mentee may also be able to connect you with someone in their network who has relevant expertise.

I accidentally selected the wrong role (mentor/mentee). How can I change it?

If you selected the wrong role during sign-up, you can request a role change by contacting support@tenthousandcoffees.com. Provide your name and email, the current role you selected, and the role you would like to switch to. The support team will assist in updating your profile accordingly.

What should I do if my mentor/mentee is unresponsive for an extended period?

If your mentor or mentee is unresponsive:


1. Follow up through the 10kc platform or email to ensure they received your message.

2. Consider reaching out via LinkedIn if their profile is available.

3. Be patient, as they may have overlooked the message or had it filtered to spam.

If you have not been able to contact them for 30 days or more, you can request to release the match by contacting support@tenthousandcoffees.com. Please note that there are typically more mentees than mentors, so a rematch is not guaranteed. Once released, your profile will return to the matching pool for the algorithm to attempt a new match.

Can I pause my participation and rejoin later?

Yes, you can pause your participation and rejoin later. To do so, contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com to request the release of your current match and removal from the active participant pool. When you are ready to return, notify support to reactivate your profile, and the algorithm will attempt to find a new match based on availability.

Please note that rematching is not guaranteed due to the limited number of mentors compared to mentees.

What happens if I miss a scheduled session?

If you miss a session, communicate with your mentor or mentee to reschedule at a mutually convenient time. Flexibility is key to maintaining a successful mentoring relationship, and catching up on missed sessions ensures progress remains on track.

Are there any rules or guidelines for participating in the program?

Participants are expected to:

• Communicate respectfully and professionally.
• Commit to the agreed-upon schedule.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding shared personal or professional information.

Adhering to these guidelines helps create a positive and productive mentoring experience.

Platform Features

Are there built in tools on the platform to track goals or progress?

Yes, the platform provides tools to help track goals and progress. Mentors and mentees receive regular email reminders from the platform to encourage them to stay on track and advance through the program. Additionally, there are features within the profile section that allow participants to establish and document their goals.

How can I schedule meetings with my mentor/mentee through the platform?

Once introduced, you can contact your mentor or mentee through the 10kc platform or by replying to the introduction email sent by 10kc.

You are free to choose the meeting method that works best for both of you, whether in person, via Google Meet, Zoom, or another platform. It’s recommended to coordinate these logistics during your first meeting to ensure smooth scheduling for future sessions.

Does the platform provide templates or suggestions for discussion topics?

Yes, the platform provides content and discussion topic suggestions ahead of each session via email. This content is also available directly on the platform, allowing mentors and mentees to progress through the program at their own pace.

If you choose to progress faster than the regular schedule, you will still receive the scheduled emails. These can be ignored if you have already moved ahead.

Mentorship Role

I have never mentored before. Can I be a mentor?

Yes, you can be a mentor even if you have no prior mentoring experience. The program is designed to support mentors by providing guidance, materials, and suggested discussion topics to help you navigate the mentoring process.

As a mentor, your primary role is to share your knowledge, experiences, and perspectives while supporting your mentee’s professional growth. Many mentors find that the experience is not only rewarding but also an opportunity for their own personal and professional development.

How many years experience do I need to be a mentor?

There is no strict requirement for a specific number of years of experience to be a mentor. However, mentors should have sufficient professional experience and knowledge in their field to provide meaningful guidance and insights to their mentees.

If you feel confident sharing your expertise and supporting someone in their professional development, you are encouraged to participate as a mentor.

How much time should I dedicate to being a mentor?

Mentors typically dedicate about one hour per month for sessions, plus some additional time for preparation or follow-up. The exact time commitment may vary based on the mentee’s goals and the mentor’s availability.

Can I mentor more than one mentee at a time?

Yes, mentors can support multiple mentees if they have the capacity. If you are interested in mentoring additional mentees, contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com to learn more about the process.

What should I do if I feel I am not providing enough value to my mentee?

If you feel this way, discuss your concerns openly with your mentee. Ask for feedback on what they find most helpful and what areas they would like to focus on. Adjust your approach as needed

Are there builtin tools on the platform to track goals or progress?

If your mentee appears disengaged, try to understand their challenges by asking open-ended questions about their goals and expectations. Be supportive and encourage them to share feedback. If the issue persists, you may suggest revisiting the goals of the relationship.

Can I provide references or recommendations for my mentee?

Yes, mentors are welcome to provide references or recommendations for their mentee if they feel comfortable doing so. This is entirely at the mentor’s discretion and should be based on the relationship and understanding developed during the program.

Termination or Completion

What happens when the program ends?

When the program ends, mentors and mentees are automatically returned to the matching pool to await a new match in future cycles.

If you wish to take a break or be removed from the matching process, you can contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com with your request.

Can I continue the mentoring relationship after the program formally concludes?

Yes, you may choose to continue the mentoring relationship informally after the program ends, provided both you and your mentor or mentee agree.

The formal structure and support of the program will no longer apply, but many participants find value in maintaining their connection beyond the program timeline.

What happens if my mentor/mentee and I complete the program early?

If you and your mentor or mentee complete the program early, you can contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com to:


1. Request to be unmatched and returned to the matching pool for a new match.

2. Request to be removed from the program if you wish to take a break.

 

This flexibility allows you to decide how you'd like to proceed after completing the program.

Feedback and Support

How can I provide feedback about the program?

You can provide feedback through the surveys prompted by the platform throughout the program. Additionally, you may use the “Contact Us” form to share your thoughts.

Please note that if your inquiry relates to a topic covered in this FAQ, you may not receive a response.

Who can I contact for support if I have questions or concerns?

For support, you can reach out to the 10kc team via support@tenthousandcoffees.com. Be sure to include a detailed description of your question or concern to help them assist you more effectively.

Can I suggest improvements or features for the program?

Yes, we welcome your suggestions for improving the program or adding new features. You can share your ideas through the “Contact Us” form on the platform or include them in program feedback surveys. Your input helps us refine the program and better serve participants.

What devices or browsers work best with the platform?

The platform works best on desktops and laptops using an up-to-date version of modern browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari. It is not optimized for mobile devices, so using a computer is strongly recommended for the best experience.

What should I do if I encounter technical issues on the platform?

If you encounter technical issues on the platform, try the following steps:


1. Ensure you are using a compatible device (desktop or laptop) and an up-to-date browser such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari.

2. Clear your browser cache and cookies, then restart your browser.

3. Check your internet connection to ensure it is stable.

 

If the issue persists, contact support@tenthousandcoffees.com with a detailed description of the problem, including any error messages, the browser and device you are using, and steps to reproduce the issue.

How do I update my profile information after signing up?

To update your profile information after signing up, log in to the platform using a desktop or laptop. Navigate to your profile settings, where you can edit details such as your preferences, goals, and areas of expertise or interest.

Ensure that your updates are saved before exiting. These updates will help the matching algorithm better align your profile with potential mentors or mentees.

Expectations and Responsabilities

What are the expectations for mentors and mentees in the program?

Both mentors and mentees are expected to:

  1. Commit to regular meetings, typically one session per month, or as mutually agreed upon.
  2. Communicate openly and respectfully, setting clear goals for the mentoring relationship.
  3. Prepare for sessions by reviewing discussion topics and any agreed-upon materials in advance.
  4. Provide feedback and adapt as needed to ensure the relationship is productive and beneficial for both parties.

Mentors should guide and support their mentees’ professional growth, while mentees are encouraged to take ownership of their development and actively participate in the mentoring process.

What is the time commitment required for participants?

Participants are typically expected to commit to one session per month, with each session lasting about an hour. In addition to meeting time, participants should plan for some preparation, such as reviewing discussion topics or materials in advance.

The overall time commitment is flexible and can be adjusted based on the preferences and availability of the mentor and mentee.

Can I communicate with my mentor/mentee outside the platform?

Yes, you can communicate with your mentor or mentee outside the platform. Many participants find it helpful to use email, phone calls, or video conferencing tools to schedule and conduct their sessions.