Reverse Mentoring

Training for mentees and mentors to enhance programme outcomes

Reverse Mentoring Training: At a Glance

  • Goal: To foster skill-sharing, break down hierarchy, and improve retention.

  • Participants: Junior/Mid-level staff (Mentors) and Senior Executives (Mentees).

  • Delivery – Mentors: 1-Day interactive class (In-person or Virtual).

  • Delivery – Mentees: Flexible, pre-recorded virtual modules (designed for busy executive schedules).

  • Key Topics: Constructive challenge, unconscious bias, and hierarchical dynamics.

  • Cost: £395 + VAT per learner.

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What is reverse mentoring?

This style of mentoring sees younger or less experienced members of staff mentor a senior or executive level individual. Reverse mentors can impart new skillsets, prompt reviews of current operating policies and procedures, and provide a fresh perspective to help their mentees explore new possibilities.

Feature Traditional Mentoring Reverse Mentoring
Mentor Senior/Experienced Junior/Incoming
Mentee Junior/Learner Senior/Executive
Primary Goal Career progression & skill transfer Cultural insight & fresh perspectives
Hierarchy Top-down Bottom-up/non-hierarchical
Strategic Use Onboarding & talent pipeline DEI, Digital trends, & Innovation

Impact of Reverse Mentoring:

Finance company BNY Mellon Pershing boosted its retention rate to 96% for the 77 individuals who took part in its reverse mentoring scheme.

Reverse mentoring is a powerful tool for an organisation to harness, providing an evidence-based approach to breaking down workplace hierarchy, address barriers around communication, and confront unconcious bias in leadership which may be standing in the way of growth.

Who is reverse mentor training for?

Organisations looking to improve communication and skill sharing between incoming and established team members. Whether as part of driving cultural transformation, in response to a specific set of challenges, or to drive upskilling and reskilling across multiple teams, the potential for this type of mentoring is almost limitless.

Comprehensive Training for Both Mentors and Mentees

We take a holistic approach to developing reverse mentoring programmes, training both the mentor (junior) and the mentee (senior). This means we can offer a complete solution that empowers all participants.

The training for reverse mentors allows them to develop their skills in working with senior staff. The concept of potentially challenging a more senior colleague can be daunting, which is why our course emphasises building mentor’s confidence in the value of their unique experiences, along with best practice for developing discussions with their colleagues. Modules cover the practicalities of structuring mentoring sessions, examining the underpinning ethos and attitudes of their workplace, and how to constructively challenge assumptions.

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Why do senior executives need training to be a mentee?

Shifting from a traditional leadership role to being a mentee can be challenging. Our training for senior staff covers receiving feedback and accepting constructive challenge, identifying unconscious bias, and developing a relationship based on trust rather than hierarchy. This ensures they are prepared to get the maximum value from their mentor.

How is the reverse mentor training delivered?

We offer a flexible dual approach. Junior mentors attend a dedicated one-day interactive session (live or virtual). Senior mentees complete their training through pre-recorded virtual units, allowing them to fit the learning into a demanding executive schedule.

Can we deliver the reverse mentoring training internally?

Yes. We offer scalable ‘Train the Trainer’ solutions for internal mentoring schemes. We train your internal team on how to deliver our Reverse Mentor course, providing a sustainable, long-term solution for recurring internal programmes.

Find Out More

If you would like to find out more about how we can upskill your management and mentor teams, get in touch today for a no obligation chat about your reverse mentor training options.

Check out our course catalogue for training options