Speed Mentoring

Prof. Development

PMI Belgium Speed Mentoring Pilot

A lightweight, purpose-driven mentoring experience to help project professionals address specific questions or challenges in a timely, focused way.

Pilot initiative

Speed Mentoring is being launched as a pilot initiative, starting with our Community of Practice (CoP) Life Sciences, in response to member demand.

This pilot phase allows us to test the format, learn from real usage, and continuously improve the experience. Based on feedback and outcomes, Speed Mentoring will be refined and progressively expanded to support a broader range of industries and Communities of Practice within the Chapter.

What it is

It offers a space for members to connect with experienced professionals from the community and its Communities of Practice, exchange perspectives, and gain practical insights grounded in real-world experience, without the structure or commitment of a long-term mentoring relationship.

Participants are supported through personas representing sectors or disciplines, enabling flexible matching while ensuring relevance and responsible use of volunteer time.

How it differs

Unlike our Mentoring Program, Speed Mentoring:

  • Is ad-hoc and on-demand
  • Focuses on one clearly defined topic
  • Is delivered through one 1:1 session
  • Uses expert personas rather than named mentors

This format is ideal if you:

  • Have a specific question or issue
  • Are seeking sector-specific insight
  • Need practical advice, not long-term mentoring
  • Want to explore speed mentoring before committing to a full program
  • Are transitioning into a new sector or industry
  • Are new to the Belgian job market
  • Are an early-career or mid-career professional seeking clarity on next steps
  • Are exploring roles in project management or digital transformation

How it works

  1. Apply online
    Members of the Chapter, CoPs, or the wider project professional community submit a short application describing their challenge and selecting the most relevant sector(s) or discipline(s). Applications are open year-round.
  2. Matching and validation
    A designated PMI Belgium volunteer, in collaboration with CoP representatives, reviews incoming applications to confirm clarity and scope, validate alignment, and match requests to the most suitable persona(s).
  3. Grouping and scheduling
    Sessions are delivered through periodic online Speed Mentoring events, organized based on volume of applications, availability of mentors and CoP members, and thematic alignment. Events may be organized monthly or bi-monthly depending on demand and capacity.
  4. Speed Mentoring event (with breakout rooms)
    The event typically runs for approximately 90 minutes and includes a brief introduction, two breakout room rounds, and a short closure and feedback moment. Each discussion lasts up to 30 minutes and focuses on one specific challenge.
  5. Closure
    Each engagement concludes at the end of the event. There is no expectation of follow-up. Continued mentoring requires a new application or participation in our Mentoring Program.

Key notes for participants

  • Sessions are organized in phases, not immediately upon application
  • Applications may be grouped to ensure efficient use of volunteer time
  • Sessions are virtual by default
  • English is the default language; other languages may be used if all participants agree
  • PDUs are available for mentors only, in line with PMI volunteer guidelines

Speed Mentoring is

  • Focused and practical, addressing one clearly defined topic
  • Short-term and goal-oriented, designed to support clarity and decision-making
  • Confidential and professional, within the bounds of a volunteer mentoring engagement
  • Delivered as a single, standalone session, with no expectation of repetition or continuation

Speed Mentoring is not

  • Long-term mentoring or coaching
  • A replacement for the PMI Belgium Mentoring Program
  • A guaranteed recurring engagement
  • A substitute for professional, certified coaching

Ready to apply?

Complete the online application using the link below. Once applications are reviewed and grouped, matched participants will be notified by email with the event details.

Apply for Speed Mentoring

The sessions are scheduled based on mentor availability and application volume, to ensure focused discussions and meaningful use of volunteer time.