Karen is the RTPI's Membership Engagement Manager.
Exciting update: Our career development mentoring program is now open for mentees!
We are thrilled to announce the incredible success of our career development mentoring program's sign-up process so far, with over 115 mentors registered, and we’re now officially open for mentees! After receiving an overwhelming response from a diverse group of highly skilled and experienced mentors, we’re excited to take the next step in helping professionals grow, learn, and connect within the field of planning.
A successful start: Our mentor sign-up journey
From the moment we launched the sign-up process for mentors, we were amazed by the enthusiastic response. Talented professionals and experts from across all regions and specialisms, have signed up to offer their insights, guidance, and support to emerging talent in the field of planning. The high volume of sign-ups demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing the profession and investing in the next generation of leaders.
Our mentors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, with diverse backgrounds in urban planning, project management, policy development, environmental planning, and more. Whether they are seasoned professionals or experts with niche specialties, their collective wisdom will prove invaluable for those seeking to accelerate their careers in planning.
Now open for mentees: A global opportunity
With mentors in place, we are excited to open up our career development mentoring program for mentees globally! This online program is designed to connect individuals from different sectors, allowing for cross-profession learning and collaboration.
Whether you’re a new planner looking to build your skill set, or a mid-career professional aiming to broaden your perspective and advance to new heights, this program offers tailored mentorship opportunities to support your growth. The beauty of an online mentoring program is its accessibility—whether you're in Scotland or Shanghai or anywhere in between, you can now connect with some of the best professionals in the field, all from the comfort of your own office or home.
Why it’s important to advance the skills of planners
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the role of a planner is more critical than ever. Planners shape the future of communities, cities, and environments. However, as industries and technologies evolve, so too must the skill set of professionals within these fields.
Through mentorship, planners can hone the skills they need to tackle today’s complex challenges. From mastering the latest software tools and techniques to improving leadership and communication abilities, mentorship is a key vehicle for staying relevant and effective in an ever-changing landscape. The career development mentoring program is dedicated to ensuring that planners, at every stage of their career, have the resources they need to develop these vital skills.
The power of mentorship: Benefits for both mentees and mentors
Mentorship isn’t just beneficial for the mentee—it’s a rewarding experience for the mentor as well! Here's why both parties stand to gain from participating in this program:
Benefits for mentees:
- Personalised guidance: You’ll receive tailored advice that helps you navigate your career challenges and set clear, actionable goals.
- Industry insights: Access to valuable insights and trends in the field of planning that you might not find in traditional training programs.
- Expanded network: Through mentorship, you’ll connect with a global network of professionals that can open doors to career opportunities.
- Confidence boost: With guidance from a mentor, you'll gain confidence in your decision-making abilities, and in your career journey.
Benefits for mentors:
- Giving back: Being a mentor allows you to give back to the planning community by sharing your expertise and shaping the next generation of professionals.
- Personal fulfilment: There’s immense satisfaction in watching your mentee grow and succeed, knowing you played a role in their development.
- Strengthening skills: Mentoring enhances your own leadership and communication skills and provides opportunities for self-reflection and learning.
- Building relationships: As a mentor, you gain a fresh perspective from your mentee’s challenges and ideas, which can help enrich your own professional journey.
Why this program matters
The importance of mentorship in career development cannot be overstated. Mentorship isn’t just a one-way street—it's an opportunity for mutual growth. In the world of planning, where the problems we face are complex and multifaceted, having the right guidance at the right time can make all the difference in building a sustainable and successful career.
As the world becomes more interconnected, it is more important than ever for planners to have access to diverse viewpoints, experiences, and expertise. Our online global program brings together mentors and mentees from different backgrounds, allowing for the exchange of ideas, strategies, and best practices that transcend geographic boundaries.
Looking ahead
We are excited to see the growth of this mentoring program in the coming months and years. The program is designed to evolve with the changing needs of planners, and we remain committed to ensuring that both mentors and mentees receive the support they need to succeed.
If you’re looking to take your career to the next level or want to give back by helping others succeed, this program is for you. Mentorship is one of the most impactful ways to foster professional growth, and we’re thrilled to be part of this incredible journey.
Join the career development mentoring program today and start shaping the future of planning—one connection at a time!
