Virtual Mentors
Having Mentors can really impact the virtual experience. Typically, the Mentor is still in charge of supporting learners. In the virtual world, that means: monitoring the chat, leading a breakout room, and running a movement break, or icebreaker for the Party Room, and 20/20/20’s.

Producers:

• Ensure Producers know to arrive 30 minutes before worksop start
• Optional: Meeting Your Mentors Before an Experience
  It is optional to get your virtual team together ahead of the workshop and this meeting will be organized by the Producer (Chapter Lead) if they choose. All parties commit to signing into the Zoom meeting 30 minutes prior to the workshop start, and this is what is expected for Mentors. Mentors have participated in a training session with Cael & Wilson and they have their own training course.

Instructors:

• Mentor Huddle
  As the Instructor, you will be running the Mentor Huddle. The Mentor Huddle will take place at least 30 minutes before the experience starts, and can be 5 – 10 minutes of your setup time before the virtual experience. The main objective is to appreciate the Mentors, make them feel confident, and give them an opportunity to ask questions. Here is an example of a Mentor Huddle for Adults.

Things to cover in the Mentor Huddle:

• Introductions (2-3 minutes)
• Experience Overview (3-5 minutes)
• Schedule of the day
• Role of team members
• Any last minute content or tool tips
• Any information about sponsors, or special guests
• Confirming or Adding Mentor Responsibilities. Example, what is the goal of each breakout room in this workshop? Or in the main room they can help you monitor the chat and in breakout rooms they will interact with learners, answer questions, or support learners that are struggling.
• Confirming any additional activities for the Mentor. Example, In the party room: they might volunteer to lead an icebreaker. Mentors do not have to lead these additional activities, but make sure to give them the option. Always prepare your own additional activities in case Mentors cannot attend or are not comfortable leading!