In 2017 the Administrators’ Steering Committee implemented a mentorship program, below is an overview of the program, the process and the peer partner mentor/mentee roles. The goal of this program is to match seasoned ADFM Administrators (2+ years in a department) with new ADFM Administrators (< 2 Years) in DFMs to assist with the transition to a DFM Administrative Role and to improve specific knowledge, skills and abilities related to the role of an administrator. Additionally, the program aims to facilitate a better understanding of the ADFM culture for new administrators.

Program Guidelines:

• Peer partners will be matched based on the one who is seeking a partner's needs and those they are matched with strengths. We will also match based on department similarities when possible.
• Peer partnerships will last for 12 months within the program and may continue unofficially if the parties agree.
• Peer partners establish the frequency and structure of meetings, but we encourage those seeking a peer partner to provide the agenda of topics to discuss
• Participation is voluntary and may be terminated by either party if desired.

Program Objectives: 

• Partner two ADFM Administrators to assist with the transition to a Department of Family Medicine Administrative Role and improve specific knowledge, skills and abilities as defined in the application.
• Partner two ADFM Administrators to facilitate a better understanding of the ADFM culture.

Process:

• Fill out the ADFM Administrator Demographics Info Request & Peer Partner Application (linked below). Use as much detail as possible to be able to pair you with the most appropriate match. 
• ADFM Staff will review the application with the Administrator Steering Committee and follow up within 2-3 weeks with a match (depending on availability of other peer partners). 
• An email confirmation will be sent to the Administrators reinforcing the time commitment and other expectations for the participating administrator.

Significant effort will be made to identify the most appropriate mentor of each mentee based on the preferences and goals provided.

Click here for ADFM Administrator Demographics Info Request Form & Peer Partner Application

Reach out to Sam Elwood (selwood@adfm.org) with questions.

FOR PEER PARTNER WITH EXPERIENCE:

This is an ADFM Administrator (5 or more years, preferred) who is willing and able to share his or her knowledge and work experience with an early career ADFM Administrator (1 to 3 years). This role will vary depending on the needs of the person seeking a peer partner. 

Your Benefits

• Gain deep satisfaction from sharing expertise and watching another administrator develop.
• Add to your already outstanding leadership skills.
• Build a professional network for future collaboration.
• Invest in the future of the ADFM.
• Learn from the mentee's experiences and insights.
• Give something back to the professional community.

Your Responsibilities

• Maintain consistent contact with the mentee (approximately 1-5 hours a month).
• Introduce networking opportunities.
• Serve as an unbiased confidant and advisor.
• Discuss possible professional goals to be achieved.
• Provide insights to ADFM culture and organizational climate.
• Provide positive and objective suggestions on appropriate professional office behavior.
• Provide positive and objective suggestions on ways to improve job performance.
• Follow through on commitments.
• Communicate cooperatively.
• Notify by email – Sam Elwood (selwood@adfm.org) of any changes with the partnership.

How to get involved

• Complete the ADFM Administrator Demographics Info Request & Peer Partner Application (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ADFMDA), within it select that you’re a “peer partner who is more experienced in your role (3-5 years).”

FOR PEER PARTNER LOOKING TO GAIN EXPERIENCE:

This is someone who is an early career ADFM Administrator (1 to 3 years) who is interested in developing a network of support that will enhance his or her knowledge and work experience.

Program Benefits

• Develop strong professional competencies that pertain to successful career at HSC.
• Increase job satisfaction through positive exchanges of ideas and experiences.
• Create a professional relationship with another ADFM Administrator (with 3 or more years as an Administrator and has attended at least 1 ADFM Winter Meeting).
• Learn more about the ADFM culture and structure.
• Network with other employees within the Health Science Center.
• Have the opportunity to become a mentor to someone else someday.

Your Responsibilities

• Maintain consistent contact with the mentor. (approximately 2-5 hours a month).
• Be open to feedback.
• Be interested in learning and growing.
• Be proactive.
• Follow through on commitments.
• Communicate cooperatively.

How to get involved

• Complete the ADFM Administrator Demographics Info Request & Peer Partner Application (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ADFMDA), within it select that you’re a “peer partner who is newer to your role (less than 3 years).”