Need Topic for Networking Social: Mentoring?

[JenniferJJ]

I am organizing the fall networking social for the women's networking group at my work. For the speaker, someone suggested a certain person since she is a good mentor. I then thought this person could speak on mentoring. Is that too general? If so, what other aspects of mentoring could she talk about? I was told that when I call to ask someone to be a speaker, I should give topic ideas. It it matters, the company is an automotive supplier.

TIA.

[funniegrrl]

For general purposes, if they are accustomed to giving talks, they'll have canned topics. I would start a conversation with a speaker by asking if they have topics they typically discuss. If not, or if their topics don't fit with your group, then make suggestions.

In this case, since the reason you want this particular person is because of their experience in that area, though, there's no reason not to state that as the reason for the invitation. "I've been told that you're a terrific mentor and we'd really like to learn more about this topic ..."

As for mentoring as a topic, I think it's fine, although I would give the speaker more focus. Do you want her to talk about being a mentor, or choosing and using a mentor, or gender roles in mentoring, or something else, or some combination? In other words, what aspect of mentoring would the group find most beneficial to learn about?

[JenniferJJ]

bump...any more ideas?