A bit over a year ago when Sara Bresnahan joined SIVO as Project Manager for our Mentoring Programme for Professionals, she saw a great opportunity for personal development in becoming a mentee herself. In the interview below you can find out more about her journey as a mentee and how it helped her start her own coaching business in Switzerland.
What were your expectations prior to starting the mentoring programme?
My expectations prior to starting the programme were that I would be linked with a professional in the community who had overcome some of the similar challenges I had encountered related to entering the workforce in Switzerland.
What are the main benefits for you from participating in it?
I learned about the needs that exist for counselling support within the community and the steps that needed to be taken in order to be come a self employed person in Switzerland. After setting this foundation I was able to connect with referral sources, other providers, and agencies who are engaged in this work.
What surprised you?
I was surprised to learn that there was a place for me within the work force as a self-employed, English speaking coach/counsellor. I was able to utilize my training, experience, and educational background to meet the needs of children and families in the community. My mentor helped me to know what to expect in getting set up and reminded me to hold a hopeful perspective when faced with setbacks.
What exceeded your expectations?
I was fortunate to be linked with a mentor that extended beyond our time in the programme who I learned so much from and have since been able to collaborate with.
Your key learning from the experience (one phrase/sentence)
To believe that I am ready now versus waiting for the day when I “felt” 100% ready to get started in this work, which may have never come.
Are you interested in participating in SIVO’s Mentoring Programme for Professionals? Drop us a line at mentoring-programme@sivo.ch telling us more about yourself and what you can bring to the table as a mentor or mentee, and we will get in touch.
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