MENTORNET GETS FULL MARKS FROM WOMEN IN BUSINESS The Australian Businesswomen’s Network (ABN) is helping small business to grow at a rapid rate, with 100% of MentorNet participants reporting an increase in business skills, more direction in their business and expanded networks. In addition, 50% of current participants have already recorded business growth and increased turnover as a direct result of their participation in the program*. MentorNet (ABN’s innovative online mentoring program) assists women to grow their businesses and connects them with the skills and experience of successful businesspeople.
The MentorNet program is conducted entirely online using social networking and Web 2.0 media and is the first program of its kind to use this unique training and education model. Using a combination of online classrooms, blogs, podcasts, a web-community and virtual meetings, MentorNet gives women nationally access to mentoring with flexibility for busy schedules. Over a six-month period, participants are guided (by their mentor and pod of fellow mentorees) through building a business plan and developing skills that are tailored to the requirements of their own businesses. The MentorNet program was successfully launched in January 2007 with the assistance of a Federal Government grant under the Australian Government’s Building Entrepreneurship in Small Business program.
“Mentoring is the key to business success and the results of MentorNet are clearly showing this” says Suzi Dafnis, ABN’s National General Manager. “The newly-acquired business skills women are achieving combined with the mentoring is having a positive impact on their business. The structure of MentorNet has allowed for increased accountability and provided practical business tools, which is reflected in the changes in their businesses. And with only an hour per week of dedicated time, the program fits in comfortably with their busy lives.”
Jade Harley of Qi Media – Events and Marketing is one businesswoman who has benefited from the program
“The MentorNet Program has been an invaluable tool for both my business and my personal growth.” She says “With the help of my Mentor and my pod members, I have found a new level of passion for my business and developed clear goals and systems. MentorNet has given me the direction and tools required to establish growth and success. The on-going support and advice is invaluable and the process is fun and rewarding.”
For more information or case studies please contact Belinda Worsley at Bay Street Mediaworks on 02 9212 4335 or belinda@baystmediaworks.com.au. Learn more about the MentorNet Program.
*Survey conducted on all MentorNet participants, July 2007.
