Development and satisfaction of a mentoring-match algorithm

The purpose of this study was to describe development, application, and satisfaction of a mentoring match algorithm created for the ACRM CDNG Leadership Mentoring Program. We conducted sequential, mixed methods evaluation of a mentoring-match algorithm. Interdisciplinary rehabilitation professionals participated in the program as mentees and mentors. We assessed mentoring matches made and frequency of mentees being matched with their first, second, or third recommended mentor. We also conducted focus groups to explore satisfaction with mentoring matches. There were 13 mentoring matches made (26 participants: 13 mentees and 13 mentors), including 7 mentees (53.8%) matched with their first recommended mentor, 5 (38.7%) with their second, and 1 (7.6%) with their third. Key qualitative findings included quality and structure of the mentoring matches and recommendations for improvements. This novel, interdisciplinary mentoring match algorithm shows promise for use across disciplines, settings, and organizations. More research is needed to evaluate program outcomes.