At ESMT Berlin, learning goes beyond the classroom. It lives in connections, conversations, and shared experiences that shape careers and lives. The ESMT MentorMap program is our structured mentoring initiative, designed to strengthen these connections across students, alumni, and the broader ESMT community.
Following a successful pilot with over 350 participants and 216 mentoring matches, we are proud to launch the second edition of MentorMap in October 2025. We are now seeking dedicated mentors who are ready to support the next generation of leaders, while also gaining new perspectives and expanding their own networks.
Overview
Why Become a Mentor ?
MentorMap is open to all members of the ESMT community who are eager to grow through meaningful connection. Whether you are an experienced professional looking to mentor, or someone seeking guidance on your career path, you’re welcome to join.
Mentors may include ESMT alumni, Executive MBA students, participants in advanced programs, and trusted partners or friends of the ESMT network. The program values diverse experiences, industries, and career stages - what matters most is your willingness to support, listen, and engage.
MentorMap Handbook
Why Become a Mentee?
Looking for clarity, confidence, or career direction? MentorMap connects you with experienced professionals who have been where you are. Whether you are a student, staff member, or alum interested in learning more, you can join as a mentee to gain real-world advice, honest feedback, and a trusted sounding board – all in a supportive, inclusive space.
We believe there is no such thing as knowing everything. However, we encourage you to reflect on your experience level – if you have valuable insights to share, signing up as a mentor might also be right for you. In fact, you are welcome to sign up as both a mentor and a mentee. Staff can participate as mentors too!
Ready to grow, ask big questions, and build lasting connections? Join as a mentee today.
What to Expect
Program Duration: October 2025 – March 2026
Commitment: 3–6 sessions (45–60 minutes each), online or in person, based on your availability
Matching: Thoughtfully curated based on shared goals, experience, and interests
Support: Clear onboarding, guidance, and regular check-ins from the ESMT Alumni Team
Flexibility: You choose how many mentees you would like to support
Language: English is standard, but other languages can be used by mutual agreement
What Makes a Successful Collaboration
A successful mentoring relationship is built on trust, curiosity, and mutual growth. Start by setting clear goals and realistic expectations together, and keep communication open with active listening and thoughtful questions. Share honest, constructive feedback - balancing encouragement with actionable advice - and don’t forget to celebrate progress along the way.
Great mentors lead by example, offering real-world insights, expanding their mentee’s network, and embracing different perspectives. Be open to learning too: asking for feedback helps you grow just as much as your mentee. At its core, mentoring at ESMT is about connection, reflection, and supporting each other to thrive.
FAQ's
Who organises the MentorMap programme?
The programme is managed by ESMT Berlin's Alumni Relations team.
When does the next round of MentorMap start and end?
The next cycle runs from October 2025 to March 2026, following a call for applications in September 2025.
How is MentorMap different from informal mentoring or networking events?
MentorMap offers a structured framework with guided support, personalised matching, and an intentional focus on growth, reflection, and impact - far beyond ad-hoc networking.
Can current students participate as mentors or only as mentees?
Students can be mentors or mentees - anyone with relevant professional experience is welcome to mentor, while others may choose to be mentees.
How are mentors and mentees matched?
We match participants based on shared interests, career goals, programme experience, and professional backgrounds to ensure relevance and chemistry.
Can I mentor more than one person?
Yes - you can indicate how many mentees you’d like to support when signing up. The choice is yours.
What happens if the mentoring match doesn’t work out?
If needed, we can support a respectful re-matching process. Our goal is to ensure that all participants benefit meaningfully from the experience.
Do I need to be based in Berlin to participate?
Not at all. MentorMap is designed to be global. Participants join from around the world.
Will there be support or resources provided for mentoring?
Yes. We provide onboarding materials, guidelines, conversation prompts, and check-ins throughout the programme.
How can I get involved ?
If you are interested in shaping the next generation of responsible leaders and deepening your connection to the ESMT community, we invite you to join the next edition of MentorMap as a mentor. Contact us at alumni@esmt.org
Information and Timeline
Overview
MentorMap Handbook
