ABDO peer-to-peer mentoring scheme

Sharing knowledge and expertise is fundamental to our progress both as individuals and for the profession. By building a strong mentoring relationship, you can develop great insights into areas you are less familiar with and explore needs and issues in a confidential, trusting environment.

How does it work and how do I join?

If you want to take part in the ABDO mentoring scheme visit abdo.onpld.com.

Once your account has been set up, you will be prompted to complete a profile form, which will enable mentors and mentees to be matched based on areas of common interest and experience.

The ABDO Peer-to-Peer Mentoring platform contains resources and tools to help mentees and mentors in their mentoring relationship.

How can I benefit from having a mentor?

• Receive impartial advice and encouragement
• Develop a supportive relationship
• Get assistance with problem solving
• Improve your self-confidence
• Work together on your professional development
• Reflect together on your practice
• Develop the capabilities and skills needed to succeed in our dynamic optical sector
• Get help to identify your strengths and the best way to use these in your eyecare career
• Get help to identify and overcome your weaknesses
• Gain insight into the routes available to achieve your career goals
• Access support, professional development, guidance and networking opportunities
• Overcome challenges with the support of a mentor who has been through the same experiences

How can I benefit from mentoring others?

• Develop your coaching and mentoring skills, which can contribute towards your continuing professional development (CPD) plan
• Discover the opportunity to reflect on your own practice
• Enhance your job satisfaction
• Develop professional relationships
• Enhance peer recognition
• Use your experience to benefit others
• Widen your understanding of the optical sector and the way it works
• Practice interpersonal skills
• Find personal satisfaction through supporting the development of others
• Use your communication and leadership skills and industry knowledge
• Uncover a new perspective on your professional and personal experiences
• Gain satisfaction from helping others to overcome challenges
• Develop new skills through the process of ‘Reverse Mentoring’
• Networking opportunities with other members