Careers in Translation and Interpreting

The ATA Mentoring Program

Introduction to Mentoring

Mentoring. How difficult can it be? Certainly it's not something you need to be taught!

In fact, research shows that many mentoring relationships struggle, and even fail, because it’s really not that easy. Unrealistic – and often unspoken – expectations, lack of any firm time commitment, and a failure to set goals can doom the chances for any real benefit. The mentoring relationship requires some structure, and mentors, as well as mentees, need to know how to make that happen. The ATA Mentoring Program was organized a little more than four years ago to provide just this kind of support, and in the process it has become an invaluable member benefit.

What Does the ATA Mentoring Program Offer?

An enhanced informal mentoring program does not leave the process to chance, however. In the ATA Mentoring Program, each participant receives guidance on goal-setting strategies, ways to approach the mentoring process, and suggested do's and don'ts to avoid potential problems. And to assist mentees in finding a mentor, ATA maintains an online Mentor Directory in the Members Only area of our website. The electronic format of this Directory allows mentees to search for an ATA mentor by location, language, experience, and interests.

More than ever, today's newcomers in this competitive global market need the advice and encouragement of working translators and interpreters who have on-the-job experience. The ATA Mentoring Program offers ATA members a way to make this happen.