The Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association offers mentor programs for the Next Reigning Generation (NRG) young professional members. NHLA also provides a mentor program for Women in Lodging. Each program is held twice per year.
Both mentor programs pairs mentees with leaders in the industry. The NRG sessions are 6 weeks in duration. The mentors and mentees set their own schedules based on their commitments. At the end of the six weeks, we have a get together with all mentees and mentors to review the experience. This is the first year this program has been offered to NRG members and has been very successful and highly anticipated. The NRG mentor program is offered in January and June.
The Women in Lodging mentor program launched in January of 2015 and has served over 400 women participating in the sessions. The WIL mentor program is 10 weeks long and women looking to enhance their careers or explore other opportunities are paired with female leaders. The leaders share their experience, guidance and tips for success when navigating through career choices. The WIL mentor program is offered in February and July each year.
What is the value in participating in mentor programs?
Think of it this way, how many times can you meet and learn from a successful leader in a field of interest to you? These leading mentors are willing to share time and expertise and put a lot of thought and effort into ensuring a productive and fun experience for mentees. Lifetime friendships are often formed providing access to successful industry executives.
Mentees often are scheduled to meet with other department heads as assigned by their mentors. They frequently visit the property with their mentors and have their mentors visit their own companies. This is the time to freely ask questions, make observations and learn from the mentors.
Mentors and mentees respect each other
Be sure to respect the time of your mentor or mentee. Everyone is very busy; time is limited and respect of time is of utmost importance. Attend mentee and mentor meetings as scheduled, handle conference calls as set and perform duties as set in the plan. Most importantly, have fun with the mentor programs and be sure to take back information and tips for success.
