26/01/2026
It’s National Mentoring Month, and the Institute of Employability Professionals (IEP) is celebrating by announcing that our Mentoring Programme is now open to UK Members.
Following a successful launch in Australia and a pilot programme in the UK, we’ve partnered with Brancher, a mentoring platform that uses unique software to match Mentors and Mentees based not only on skills but also on personality. This approach ensures meaningful connections that support our Members at every stage of their careers.
How the Programme Works
The IEP Mentoring Programme creates valuable opportunities for both Mentors and Mentees to give back to the employability sector while receiving vital support. Through regular meetings with experienced professionals in their field, Mentees can build newfound confidence, share experiences, and create valued connections across a professional network. Mentors, in turn, can open doors, bring tailored support, and offer a safe place to listen.
Real Impact
Joe McKenzie MIEP, Relationship Manager at Better Connected Limited, recently shared his experience at our AGM.
“My mentoring experience with Diana has been brilliant,” said Joe. “As a mentor, she has shared valuable advice and experience with me, challenging me to think about things differently. I have built confidence in myself and felt empowered to deal with problems better and feel more self-assured.”
You can watch Joe’s full conversation about his mentoring match from our AGM here:
Niki Freeman FIEP, Assistant Director Employability & Justice at Menopause Lead, explains the deeper value of the programme:
“Being a mentor isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about creating the space where someone discovers their own,” said Niki. “The mentoring via the Institute of Employability Professionals is powerful because it turns experience into opportunity, builds confidence where doubt once lived, and helps people step into their future with clarity and purpose and not just the Mentee but the mentor too.”
What Does It Mean to Be a Mentor?
- Supply guidance, support and insights from your own experiences in a safe space
- Open doors for your Mentee with your professional network
- Tailor support based on your Mentee’s goals and motivations
- Shape and help grow a career
To become a Mentor or Mentee on the programme, please sign up here: IEP Mentoring Program Application Form