The San Diego SHRM Mentorship Program is a free, member-exclusive initiative designed to foster professional growth, community connection, and two-way learning between HR professionals across all career stages.

Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career, this program offers an inclusive space to connect, share, and grow. You do not need to be “young” to be a mentee, and you do not need to be in the C-suite to serve as a mentor. Our program values mutual learning and recognizes that every HR professional has unique knowledge to share.

Match Day Event

📅 Early February
🕔 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location TBD (central to San Diego)

• 5:00 – 5:30 PM: Networking
• 5:30 – 5:45 PM: Program Overview
• 5:45 – 6:30 PM: Mentorship Workshop (how to build a great mentor/mentee relationship)
• 6:30 – 7:00 PM: One-by-one Match Reveal + Goodie Bags 🎁 (includes a Starbucks gift card for your first coffee meeting!)

Program Duration: February – June

• Monthly newsletter with suggested topics, conversation prompts, and mentorship tips
• One meeting per month is suggested (at least 1.5 hours recommended)
• One in-person meeting encouraged (virtual options welcome)
• Post-meeting check-in form required from both mentor and mentee

• Must be a current San Diego SHRM member (local chapter membership required)
• Must apply via the appropriate Mentor or Mentee application form
• Must be willing to meet with your match at least once per month (suggested meeting length: 90 minutes)
• Must complete a short post-meeting form each month
• Must commit to respectful, honest, and open communication

Pairings are based on what each participant is hoping to learn, interested in sharing, and their communication preferences—not simply years of experience or seniority.

• Mentees are encouraged to share the skills or knowledge they can offer in return (e.g., tech-savvy, AI tools, industry insights).
• Mentors are expected to serve as thoughtful guides—not just answer-givers—but ask great questions and create space for reflection and growth.
• Matches across generations and career paths are encouraged when goals align.

Each month, you’ll receive:

• ✅ Suggested topics and themes
• ✅ Tips for building trust and maintaining momentum
• ✅ Check-in form to track progress
• ✅ Optional resources

We expect all participants to commit to:

• Respectful, inclusive communication – text, call, leave voicemails, and be mindful of generational differences
• Openness & vulnerability – mentorship is not an interview; it's about real conversations, owning your mistakes, and sharing challenges
• Reliability – honor your commitment to monthly meetings and timely communication
• Reciprocity – both parties bring value, whether it’s industry insight, fresh perspectives, or moral support
• Confidentiality – maintain the privacy of your mentor/mentee’s personal and professional disclosures