Becoming an RCGP mentor

Find out more about becoming a RCGP Mentor.

Visit RCGP mentoring

What I can gain from being a RCGP mentor?

When talking about the benefits of mentoring, it is commonplace for the benefits to the mentee to take centre stage. However, mentorship is a relationship, and offers reciprocal benefits for mentors willing to invest time in developing another professional.

As well as developing your own skills and perspective, RCGP mentors can benefit from bi-annual learning events and monthly digests. Our offer for mentors is ever evolving and we look forward to introducing an online forum for mentors shortly.

  • Recognition as a subject matter expert and leader
  • Exposure to fresh perspectives, ideas and approaches
  • Extension of your professional development record
  • Opportunity to reflect on your own goals and practices
  • Development of your personal leadership and coaching styles
  • Opportunity to expand your professional network
  • Confidence building

What is expected of an RCGP Mentor?

RCGP Mentoring may be different to some other mentoring programmes you have come across in general practice. RCGP Mentoring provides the means to connect with other members for informal peer support. As an RCGP mentor, you will support your peer(s) through a career challenge or transition by using the resources and tools available to you on the platform alongside the skills and knowledge you have acquired in your career.

As an RCGP Mentor you are not expected to provide clinical supervision, or feel responsible for your mentee’s mental and physical wellbeing. If at any time you feel that this is a concern, there are resources to support you in resolving any issues and to signpost your mentee to external support services.

Is being a mentor for me?

Whilst being a mentor can be incredibly rewarding for both parties, it also comes with responsibility. Mentoring, poorly administered, can lead to the perpetuation of bad practices, a lack of clear direction and progress, and an ineffective mentoring relationship. To be a successful mentor, you need to ask yourself some questions. Honest answers will help you to get into the right mindset, and help you determine what form that mentoring will take...

Why do you want to be a mentor?

Whilst there are benefits to your development, you need to want to genuinely help any potential mentee succeed.

Do you have the time to be a mentor?

RCGP Mentoring provides you with the flexibility to deliver mentoring in many ways. However, you still need to give your mentoring relationship thinking and listening time, particularly in the early stages.

Are you open to new ideas?

The relationship should develop into a free-flowing exchange of ideas. Whilst your mentee can benefit from your methods and approach, they may have a different way of approaching problems or achieving a goal.

Are you prepared to be flexible?

The length of your mentoring relationship depends on the needs of your mentee and what you have agreed upon from the outset. Be prepared to be flexible as the needs of your mentee change.


Find out more about becoming an RCGP Mentor.

Visit RCGP Mentoring