Mentoring on RallyPoint

2015-03-05T10:05:29-05:00

Piggybacking off another thread, I got this idea from CSM Private RallyPoint Member (Thank you). I'd love to start mentoring groups here on RP. RP in case you haven't seen it already will be rolling out a groups function. I say we take advantage of it in a constructive way and start a mentoring group.

I see this being a number of different groups: a group for newer or younger servicemembers to get mentored by senior NCOs, a group for young LTs getting mentored by senior officers and NCOs, a group for veterans new to Federal Civilian service getting mentored by others who have been in Federal service a while.

I would love input and feedback from you all.

CSM Private RallyPoint Member, SSG Christopher Freeman, CPT Michael Barden, 1LT Scott Doyle, 1SG Private RallyPoint Member, SGM Private RallyPoint Member, CSM Private RallyPoint Member, COL Vincent Stoneking, CW3 Private RallyPoint Member, SSG Colette Simons, 1LT Sandy Annala

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 10:55 AM

2015-03-05T10:55:01-05:00

I'm in, for what it's worth. I think it is a great idea to actually back up our words with action but it will only be successful if there are individuals willing to be mentored.

In a few cases, maybe RP could use 'mandatory' mentoring as an option in lieu of suspension or expulsion for some members.

Response by LCpl Sam Brake made Mar 5 at 2015 11:21 AM

2015-03-05T11:21:46-05:00

I'm in, assuming anyone wants my advice. I attended college for 8 years after the Marine Corp and racked up over 100k in student loans and that's with VocRehab paying for my undergrad!! The reality is that over 80% of open jobs today do not require a college degree. Industry certifications and experience are what most employers are looking for. The military often gives us the necessary experience but more often than not the industry certification is missing.

Because of that, I've spent the last 18 months implementing workforce development programs for transitioning Service Members, National Guardsmen, Reservists and veterans. These programs provide the skills-gap training and industry certifications often needed to transition into a rewarding civilian career. Most programs are 1-2 weeks in length so there isn't a lengthy gap in employment. I have also formed many relationships with state DOL offices, Workforce Centers and grant recipients to ensure that eligible veterans have access to a variety of funding sources (GI Bill, Voc Rehab, WIA (WIOA), JD NEG, VEAP, HVRP etc.) so they don't have to pay anything out-of-pocket.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Mar 5 at 2015 11:22 AM

2015-03-05T11:22:16-05:00

I would be interested. I think it would be important that the group posts only be accessible/visible to those who meet the group criteria. Reason: Frank discussion will be facilitated by semi-non attribution. Likewise, random people contradicting advice they don't like will move discussions from "mentoring" to internet free-for all.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Mar 5 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-03-05T11:40:49-05:00

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member I think that is an awesome idea using the groups for mentoring purposes. I would be interested in seeing this concept be executed and if there is anything I can help with let me know.

Response by SSG Christopher Freeman made Mar 5 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-03-05T13:27:47-05:00

This is a great concept, but could prove to be very challenging. The groups would benefit by having some guidelines to prevent it from getting overrun. There are some good groups of FB that could give a good jumping point for some guidelines. It isn't meant to deter, but ensure quality content. I'm all about helping this along. I have an active role in multiple NCO forums and will contribute in any way possible.

Response by SPC David Shaffer made Mar 5 at 2015 9:37 PM

2015-03-05T21:37:00-05:00

Great idea.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Mar 5 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-03-05T21:42:20-05:00

Excellent idea.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 9:44 PM

2015-03-05T21:44:30-05:00

I'd participate. Let me suggest a group for personnel evaluations.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 10:50 PM

2015-03-05T22:50:15-05:00

I think this is a great idea. You can learn a lot from others on here

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 11:30 PM

2015-03-05T23:30:31-05:00

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member Lisa, count me in! This could become a positive, non-attribution forum that could many good things for all. Hope to see it kick off soon.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Mar 6 at 2015 12:20 AM

2015-03-06T00:20:04-05:00

Well this sounds interesting...I will be a disabled veteran in about 90 days!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 6:36 AM

2015-03-06T06:36:53-05:00

I'm in like Flynn. I think if we were to make a formal small group of soldiers that we could mentor it would be awesome. I would only hope that I could be service others out there. I have 14 years in from E-3 to O-2 so far. I would love to share the listens I learned so others may better handle the same situation.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-03-09T15:45:51-04:00

Agree....and also that we need a more private forum--

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 20 at 2015 2:54 PM

2015-06-20T14:54:30-04:00

I would be glad to see a PTSD group as their are many unknowns to PTSD and the MED Board process.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2015 10:30 AM

2015-07-15T10:30:28-04:00

Piggybacking on this, I'm seeking advice from anyone who works in federal service about ways to advance. SES or Branch Chief? I'd like to plan ahead and do what I can to advance.