Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you choose the Mentorees and Mentors?
Mentorees and Mentors who apply to enter the program are carefully considered based on the criteria of the program, which is outlined on the Application Form.
2. How do I get matched to my Mentor?
Mentorees are matched to Mentors who have expertise that matches the Mentoree's course objectives and who are in a non-conflicting industry to that of the Mentoree.
3. Is there an age limit on the MentorNet program?
No, regardless of what age you are, if you meet the eligibility you can participate in the program.
4. How do I interact with my Mentor if I can't see them?
The program allows each Mentoree to interact with the Mentor and other Mentorees in the group from all over Australia via a collaborative web session, where each participant can place their profile on their work-space for authorised view. You will still be able to phone/email or meet with your Mentor if you so wish by mutual agreement, however the program allows effective communication via the various online collaborative and webinar channels.
5. What is a webinar and how is it used?
Webinar is short for Web-based seminar, a presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the Web. A key feature of a Webinar is its interactive elements - the ability to give, receive and discuss information. The technology in use is leading edge. The business skills trainings are delivered using this innovative technology - which means you don't have to leave your desk... or waste time travelling.
6. What is the duration of the program?
The program operates over a six-month period. There is a break in the middle of the program
(refer to schedule). Each week, at the same time on the same day, Mentorees will participate in a Business Module webinar or in a Mentoring session with their Mentors. Mentors are welcome to participate in the Webinars however it is not essential.
7. Do I need to know a lot about computer technology to participate in this program?
No. Basic knowledge of computer applications will suffice. There is no need for any elaborate computer systems. As long as you have access to the Internet, you will be able to participate.
8. How do I know the Mentor will suit me?
Mentors apply and are selected through a criterion-based application. Mentors will be in business or will have been in a successful business for a minimum of five years. Each Mentor is chosen based on his/her expertise and matched against the Mentorees' objectives outlined in their Application Form. Mentors enter into a signed confidentiality agreement to address privacy, conflict and business sensitive issues.
9. What is the benefit in participating in this program? Do I get a qualification?
The program is designed to provide you with your very own 'blueprint' of your business in the form of a business plan, tailored to your actual business, that you can put into place immediately - in fact, as the program is running. The delivery of the program provides you with enriched business training, interactive group collaboration, thus building business knowledge, business relationships and networking opportunities.
The Australian Businesswomen's Network is not a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and cannot provide accreditation for this program. As an entrepreneur though, the emphasis is on success, not on qualifications. If it is a qualification that you are in need of, we recommend that you attend a formal learning institution.
10. What is the cost of this program?
Early bird, member discounts and pay-as-you-go options are available. The full range of pricing can be found here.
11. Do I need to be a Member of the Australian Businesswomen's Network to
participate in this program?
We recommend membership as part of your ongoing training and development.
Membership is not a pre-requisite for entry into the program, however members will be given preference when filling places in this program. Also, members receive considerable discounts to attend.
Here are some of the great benefits of joining the Australian Businesswomen's Network:
- Free business training webinars
- Your business promoted in the Member Directory
- Free advertising in our eNewsletter
- Access to member-only events and resources through a private website
- Access to the community of 15,000 women across Australia - all for just $30 a month!
Learn more about membership.
12. Will I ever need to travel to meet anyone in this program?
No. The program is delivered via the Internet and will operate from your computer wherever you are in Australia. By all means you can communicate to other participants in the program face to face, but this won't be required for the delivery of the program.
13. What if I only have dial-up Internet connection?
You will still be able to participate in the program, however you will need a separate phone line to participate in the teleconference component. So, at minimum, two phone lines are required. One phone line and a high-speed internet connection will also work.
14. What is involved to become a Mentor/ Mentoree?
MentorNet is designed for women currently operating their own business. Mentorees will develop, design and implement a business plan over the six-month period, through powerful advanced learning technologies, with essential business based content, tailored to their own business that can be put into action on completion of the program and beyond.
Mentors may be men or women who have owned and operated their business for a minimum of five (5) years in Australia. Mentors can be located nationally, even globally. Each Mentor will support up to four Mentorees through the program.
