Introduction
In the previous modules, you learned how to approach matching with an open mind - remembering that there's no such thing as a perfect match. Well, now it's time to learn how to put this into practice and find a match on Mentorloop.
By the end of this module, you'll be able to:
- Navigate your dashboard with confidence
- Explain and use the different matching styles on Mentorloop
- Progress through the Matching Milestone
Getting started with Mentorloop
In the video below, we'll show you how to signup for your program, take a tour of your new Mentorloop Dashboard and demonstrate how matching works - including how to use the self-matching tools.
How you're matched will depend on your particular program, so please keep this in mind when watching the video.
Matching on Mentorloop
As discussed in the video, there are different ways you can be matched on Mentorloop:
1) You will be assigned a match by your Program Coordinator
2) You can request your own match
3) Mentorloop's matching algorithm will find you a great match based on the criteria in your mentoring profile
Your Program Coordinator will have chosen the best type of matching for you and your peers, so if you have any questions about the chosen matching method for your program, please contact your Program Coordinator from your dashboard on the left hand navigation bar, underneath Active loops.
Recommended Matches
If the Self Match feature is enabled in your program, chances are that you also have access to Recommended Matches. This feature is a great way to look for a match if you don't know where to start when it comes to finding your own mentoring connection. The Mentorloop Algorithm suggests five potential matches based on the compatibility of your mentoring goals and expertise.
If you haven't yet entered into a mentoring relationship with anyone, Recommended Matches will appear on your dashboard. Otherwise, you can find them in the left sidebar as shown in this video:
How the algorithm works
The equitable matching algorithm ensures high quality matches for all program participants, prioritizing good parings for all and no one gets left behind.
It considers a range of criteria like skills and goals that appear on your mentoring profiles. It then benchmarks a potential match against feedback received for similar mentoring relationships that have been supported through Mentorloop over the years.
Before being published, matches suggested by the algorithm are reviwed by your Program Coordinator, who has further insight to add and additional contextual awareness that may impact the final matches, resulting in the best possible outcome for the entire cohort.
The algorithm is regularly fine-tuned through feedback from different mentoring cohorts, helping Mentorloop improve the matches within your program.
Where to go for support with matching
Whether you're struggling to find a mentor/mentee yourself or want to learn more about why you've been assigned a particular match, your Program Coordinator is there to help and answer any questions you have.
You can reach your Program Coordinator from your 1:1 loop with them, which can be found on the left hand side-bar underneath "Active Loops".
Conclusion
In this module we've learned how Mentorloop takes into account your goals, skills and other information from your profile - and that of potential matches - to help you find a great mentor or mentee. With this, you can enter the mentoring program with a greater awareness of what you can get out from the experience.
Reflection task
Log into Mentorloop and review your profile to ensure it includes all the information required to help you find a good match. Keep this up to date as you and your goals evolve.
In the next module, you'll learn what happens after you've been matched, and what the key steps are to getting your mentoring relationships off to a great start.