One common theme I hear when I talk with therapists across the country is how much they are seeking high-quality mentorship. In this current job market, recruiters everywhere will promise mentorship, but beware: not all mentorship is created equal.
Let’s talk about how you can ensure you are getting the real deal!
Enthusiastic Mentors Are Key
First, you need to ensure that whoever has been identified as your potential mentor is enthusiastic about the role. In many companies, “mentors” are assigned, sometimes against their will, and they see mentorship as yet another task on top of an already overwhelming pile. This scenario translates into poor mentorship for you. To avoid this, seek out mentors who are passionate about teaching and genuinely interested in helping you grow. Here are a few ways to gauge their enthusiasm:
- Ask Directly: During your interview or initial meetings, ask potential mentors why they enjoy mentoring and what they hope to achieve in their role.
- Observe Interactions: Pay attention to how they interact with other staff and mentees. Enthusiastic mentors often show genuine interest and proactive engagement.
Knowledge and Skills Matter
Next, make sure your mentor has the knowledge and skills you are seeking. Here’s how to ensure they are qualified:
- Certifications: Check if they have certified board specialties like an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS), or equivalent. These certifications indicate a high level of expertise.
- Advanced Training: Ask if they graduated from a residency program or had formal mentorship as part of an advanced post-graduate study. These experiences are valuable indicators of their capability to mentor effectively.
While certifications and advanced training are not the only paths to expert knowledge and skills, they are useful screening questions to assess mentor qualifications.
Timing and Curriculum Are Crucial
Finally, inquire about when the mentorship will occur and how the curriculum is determined. High-quality mentorship programs should be well-structured and integrated into your clinical practice. Here’s what to look for:
- Scheduled Mentorship: Mentorship should ideally happen with your patients at a time when your mentor can focus on you and the case you are working on together. Unfortunately, many companies find it cost-prohibitive to block a mentor’s schedule, leading to less effective mentorship.
- Structured Curriculum: A good mentorship program should have a clear curriculum covering key knowledge and skill topics, including common pitfalls mentees encounter. Beware if they tell you, “The curriculum is up to you and your mentor,” as this is often a sign of a poorly developed program.
How to Find a Mentor In Physical Therapy
Amazing mentorship is absolutely out there, but you must do your homework to cut through the noise and find the high-quality experience you are truly looking for. Here are some additional tips to help you in your search:
- Network: Connect with other PTs who have had positive mentorship experiences and ask for recommendations.
- Interview Multiple Mentors: Don’t settle for the first mentor assigned to you. Interview multiple potential mentors to find the best fit.
- Seek Testimonials: Look for testimonials or reviews from other mentees who have worked with the mentor or program.
Conclusion
Finding great mentors in physical therapy requires diligence and a clear understanding of what constitutes effective mentorship. By ensuring your mentor is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, skilled, and part of a structured program, you can set yourself up for a successful and enriching mentorship experience. Remember, high-quality mentorship can significantly impact your career growth and development, so take the time to find the right mentor for you.
Start your search today, and don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. Your future self will thank you!
Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know! Contact our PT Success Team at bkeeton@thejacksonclinics.com
To learn more about The Jackson Clinics and to explore a career with us, please visit thejacksonclinics.com/careers
