Tips for getting started on Codementor

I recently started being more active on Codementor. Even though I have an account since November 2014, this month is when I used it the most.

Since I started I’ve given 43 sessions. For 23 out of those, I also received a positive review.

Attractive profile

Make sure your profile conveys confidence, that you’re knowledgeable and that you’re experienced. Look at other mentors’ profiles and see how they’re doing.

If I were a mentee looking at your profile, what would convince me to work with you? Or, what aspects of other mentors’ profiles make you want to work with them? Aim for those.

Start low

One of the best things on Codementor is that you can choose your own pay rate. However, unless you’re super experienced, you might find it hard to get sessions at first.

Set a lower pay rate until you get reviews. Positive reviews will let mentees know they can trust you and you’re capable of helping them since you’ve done this before.

Once mentees start messaging you, or you have more sessions that you have time for, go higher.

Overdeliver

Help mentees even on chat if they have quick questions. Be punctual and understanding. There’s never a reason to be rude. Give them reasons for you to become their favourite mentor.

However, don’t waste time. If something would take 3 minutes in a session and 10 minutes on chat, kindly ask to start a session and get to work.

Optimise

I’ve met all kinds of people who needed help. Entrepreneurs, developers, beginners and even students (I’ve worked through two assignments so far with two students). They all have one trait in common — they need your help.

Most of my time is wasted on chat. When I try to understand the mentee’s problem, when they’re late, or when we try to find a time that works for both of us. Also, when I start a session and we spend too much time discussing the problem.

My favourite mentees are those who start the paid session right away — because they know my time is valuable, I’ve already understood their problem (by talking on chat) and they’re sure I can take care of it.

Takeaway: optimise your routine. One great way to do this is to read while you’re waiting for replies or sessions to start. It’s quick to switch back and forth and, besides, reading is good for you.

Rate back

Rate every session. It helps the community of mentors know the mentees they’re dealing with.

Around 50% of mentees will rate you as soon as the session is over. To the other half, write a quick message and let them know why you’d appreciate getting a review: you’re happy to receive feedback and it helps you with the weekly bonus.

Let me know if you have any other tips and I’ll gladly add them here. Happy mentoring!