Note: The Mentorship program is a benefit for IMIA members only.

Mentors - or guides - can be indispensable to moving up in your career. They play a very important role in career planning. A mentor can help teach you what you need to know about your job, your organization and your field. Often this person is the most valuable resource for figuring out some of the less obvious information - for example, who the real decision-makers are at your organization or field or what fellowship review committees look for in applications - that can help you reach your career goals. In addition, a mentor may be able speak up on your behalf, such as when you are being considered for a staff or other position. Many confuse mentoring with practicums or internships, but those that assist interns are called preceptors, also called internship supervisors, not mentors. An internship site might also have a specific internship supervisor who coordinates and connects interns with their preceptors. In healthcare, most internships are called practicums. Mentorships, on the other hand, are long term relationships between more experienced professionals with those coming into the profession. These can be rich relationships that not only help the newcomer but also hones the skills of the veteran interpreter as well.

The IMIA forum promotes mentoring in the profession and helps connect mentors and mentees. The IMIA does not recommend that mentors charge mentees for their services.

Should I get a mentor?
It’s a personal choice, but an interpreter who wants to grow professionally can benefit from having a relationship with a mentor. Since mentors can be crucial to professional success, it's worthwhile to take the time to find someone who can help guide you in the direction you want to go. You don't necessarily have to be located in the same geographical area to have a mentoring relationship. You can talk over the phone or communicate by e-mail rather than meeting in person. What is important is that your mentor has information you need to get where you want to go, is willing to share it and is willing to use her power and prestige to help you on your journey. It can be particularly beneficial if an interpreter wants to enter the interpreter educator or interpreter manager career track. Having a mentor who walked that walk can be of great value.

If you don't currently have a mentor, first make sure that you are clear on your goals and objectives. Then consider who in your profession has attained similar goals. Think about who would be the best match for you and who would provide helpful information and contacts for you. Consider what you could offer to the relationship. If someone declines to be your mentor, just re-examine your options and start over. If someone says yes, then you've gained a valuable resource.

Please contact our Board of Directors if you are interested in finding a Mentor:  http://www.imiaweb.org/about/board.asp


How can I become a mentor?
Mentors usually learn a lot from each experience and most volunteer and do not charge for their services. If you are interested in being a mentor please email your resume to info@imiaweb.org.  Upon acceptance, your name and email would be posted on our Mentorship Program page for future mentees to join.

Qualifications required include:
1)  Being a practicing professional medical interpreter
2)  Successfully completed a medical interpreter training program of at least 40 hours
3)  Successfully passed a medical interpreter performance test
4)  Over 5 years of experience as a medical interpreter in several settings\\

Qualifications preferred include:
5)  Educational background in Translation and/or Interpreting of more than 40 hours, such as a College Certificate or Degree
6) Experience as a preceptor or mentor
7) Experience as an interpreter manager or educator
8) Experience and training in Mental Health