Mentoring and Apprenticeships

The wise would pay heed to this warning: "Do not pursue this avenue of training unless you have completed, at a minimum, the USDA "Basic Indexing" course."

I don't remember who said that, but not everyone may feel the same way. There can be extenuating circumstances, such as having a degree in library science, on-the-job training, and more. Completion of the USDA course is not a prerequisite to finding mentoring or an apprenticeship. But you should have some type of training before you start your search for a mentor. Mentoring should be to refine your indexing techniques, not teach you the basics.

In order to find a mentor you will have to "network." Advertising in your local newspaper usually is NOT the way to find a mentor. Last month's article "Finding an Indexer Buddy" listed some places that can help you meet indexers, and hopefully find a mentor.

Mentorships and apprenticeships are two different animals. Make sure you know which one you are looking for. Mentorships offer advice and guidance, which can be done from a distance. Apprenticeships need to be local since page proofs need to be picked up, returned, errands run, and more.

Reminders About Mentoring and Apprenticeships:

• Chemistry. There needs to be a really good chemistry between both of you or problems could follow. Don't accept the gift of mentoring or apprenticeship just because it's kindly offered. You know yourself and your circumstances better than anyone. If you have doubts about the chemistry working out, graciously refuse.

• Appreciation. Most mentors volunteer their time. Life is short and very busy, and for a mentor to devote some of their short, precious life to your training, especially free of charge, is truly a gift. They are making personal sacrifices on your behalf, but the mentor will probably never let you know it. This mentorship gift is not something someone owes you. Be appreciative.

• Responsibility. You have a high level of responsibility to carry out when you accept mentoring or an apprenticeship. It's a two-way street of sacrifice. You may need to cancel that vacation you've been planning or forgo Junior's first baseball game. Usually, this is a temporary learning situation. It may not happen, but be prepared to make personal sacrifices for your mentor's benefit. (See item 2.)

• Pass it on. There will come a time when you no longer need the help of your current mentor. Not because you'll know everything, but because you are firmly grounded in indexing. You can never thank a parent, teacher, or mentor. All you can do is "pass it on." Whether you now strike out on your own, or you move on to a more advanced mentor, it is time to start "passing on" what your first mentor taught. You should not wait for opportunities to come to you. Take the initiative in your "passing it on."
  The copyright of the article Mentoring and Apprenticeships in Indexing is owned by Dawney Spencer. Permission to republish Mentoring and Apprenticeships in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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