Are you looking to join a group of professionals eager to share ideas and grow together? The Virtual Peer Mentor Groups connect you with other professionals. There are five peer mentor groups, each with their own topic, Conversation Catalyst and meeting times. 

What is a virtual peer mentoring group? 

A peer mentoring group is a group of people coming together to learn from each other on a specific, pre-selected topic. There is no one expert. Instead, those in the group collectively share their questions, insights and experiences to learn and grow together. The group meets virtually to allow for those across the region to participate.  

How does it work? 

When joining, you will choose a group focused on a specific topic area. Each group will have a designated conversation catalyst whose role is to start the conversation and schedule the meetings in advance. It is up to the individuals in the group to be accountable to one another and to share  knowledge and ideas on the topic for the term of the group. 

What are the topic areas?

• Leadership and Management Development: Developing the skills in others that help them to increase their effectiveness as leaders and managers and/or prepare others to take on formal leadership roles.
• Organizational Development: The processes, practices and tools for integrating changing into organizations and teams.
• E-Learning (Instructional Design): Effective learning through electronic formats such as online learning courses, microlearning components, virtual learning, webinars, etc
• Leading the Learning Function: Strategically leading the learning function and teams of learning professionals within an organization. 
• Learning Culture: Practical ways to better integrate learning with work (and reach organizational goals). 

When do the groups meet? 

The groups meet twice monthly beginning in May for a total of 6-7 meetings, each meeting lasting about an hour. The first meeting is a kick off meeting to get to know each other and plan future meetings. The rest of the meetings’ content is co-created by the group members. More details to come on the actual meeting days and times for each group. 

Who should join a virtual peer mentoring group? 

Peer mentoring groups are an ATD RMC member benefit. Any member, whether new or  experienced, is encouraged to join. We can all grow by sharing experiences and working together.  Not a member? Join now! 

Hmmm. This sounds interesting. How do I learn more?

On Thursday, April 15 join the Virtual Mentor Group Information Session from 4:30-5:30 pm. 

Okay, I’m sold. How do I join a group? 

Complete the sign-up form. 

Other Frequently Asked Questions: 

How do I decide on a topic area? 

There are lots of ways to choose and it’s really up to you. Here are some suggestions to think about  while you make your selection: a topic of interest, current needs you have on the job, projects you are  working on, an area you’d like to grow in or share your knowledge. Please keep in mind that the topic areas are first come, first served. On the sign-up form you’re asked to give your first and second choice just in case you’re first choice isn’t available.  In any case, you’ll want to choose one that you can commit to for 3 months. 

I’m having a hard time choosing. Can I join more than one group? 

We would prefer that you only join one group to start. We know you feel like a kid in a candy store, but we are here to tell you more isn’t better when you get that tummy ache. If you really feel stuck, reach out to us and we can try to help you determine which group might be most beneficial. 

I’m still not sure I’d bring value, what should I do? 

YOU have personal experience that is different and therefore valuable, regardless of how much  experience you have. Your ideas, experiences and questions you ask all allow the others in the group  to grow because you’ll stimulate new thoughts, ideas and conversations. Don’t let nerves stand in  your way, give it a try!

What if I realize I should have picked a different group? 

If you feel the group you are in isn’t what you expected, you encounter any problems, or you have a  pressing need at work in another area, we will do our best to work with you in allowing a change of  focus groups. You will need to email the VP of Community Engagement and let us know you’d like to change groups. A board member will reach out to you and work with you to move to another group as we are able. 

What if the conversation catalyst isn’t keeping our group going, it’s stalled, or I have other concerns  about the group?

Please email the Vice President of Community Engagement and let us know your concerns. We will work as a  board to address the issue and ensure the group is healthy and effective.  

I have more questions. Whom can I reach out to?

Please contact the Vice President of Community Engagement if you have further questions or need assistance.

Email the Vice President of Community Engagement

Mentor Groups Meeting Times

Group	Leadership and Management Development
Day and Time	Wednesdays 4:30 to 5:30 MT
Conversation Catalyst	Shana Bosler
Register	https://www.atdrmc.org/event-4269290
Kickoff Meeting	May 12
Session 1	May 19
Session 2	June 2
Session 3	June 16
Session 4	June 30
Session 5	July 7
Session 6	July 14

Group	Learning Culture
Day and Time	Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:30 MT
Conversation Catalyst	Katie Gerwitz
Register	https://www.atdrmc.org/event-4269316
Kickoff Meeting	May 11
Session 1	May 18
Session 2	May 25
Session 3	June 8
Session 4	June 22
Session 5	June 29
Session 6	July 13

Group	Leading the Learning Function
Day and Time	Thursdays 4:30 to 5:30 MT
Conversation Catalyst	Amy Auberry
Register	https://www.atdrmc.org/event-4269340
Kickoff Meeting	May 13
Session 1	May 20
Session 2	June 3
Session 3	June 17
Session 4	July 1
Session 5	July 15
Session 6	July 29

Group	eLearning (Instructional Design)
Day and Time	Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:30 MT
Conversation Catalyst	Thomas Toth
Register	https://www.atdrmc.org/event-4269345
Kickoff Meeting	May 4
Session 1	May 18
Session 2	June 1
Session 3	June 15
Session 4	June 29
Session 5	July 6
Session 6	July 20

Group	Organizational Development
Day and Time	Wednesdays 4:30 to 5:30 MT
Conversation Catalyst	Hethyr Fouse
Register	https://www.atdrmc.org/event-4269357
Kickoff Meeting	May 5
Session 1	May 19
Session 2	June 2
Session 3	June 16
Session 4	June 30
Session 5	July 14
Session 6	July 28