Safety Tips for Mentorship
Your safety and security are our top priorities. Please review these important guidelines.
Meeting in Person
Meet in public places: Always choose well-lit, populated locations like coffee shops, libraries, or community centers for your first several meetings.
Tell someone: Inform a friend or family member about your meeting location, time, and who you're meeting with.
Bring your phone: Keep your phone charged and with you at all times during meetings.
Trust your instincts: If something feels uncomfortable or unsafe, leave immediately. Your safety comes first.
Online Meetings
Use video calls: Start with video calls to build trust and verify identity before meeting in person.
Use reputable platforms: Stick to well-known video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.
Control your environment: Be mindful of what's visible in your background and avoid sharing personal information.
Protecting Your Privacy
Limit personal information: Don't share your home address, financial information, or other sensitive details until you've established trust.
Use platform messaging: Keep initial communications within the MentorsFinder platform when possible.
Be cautious with social media: Think carefully before connecting on personal social media accounts.
Red Flags to Watch For
Someone asking for money or financial assistance
Pressure to meet in private or isolated locations
Requests for personal financial information or passwords
Inappropriate or uncomfortable personal questions early in the relationship
Reluctance to meet via video or in public places
Reporting Concerns
If you experience or witness behavior that makes you uncomfortable or seems unsafe:
End the interaction: You have the right to end any mentorship relationship at any time.
Contact us: Report concerning behavior through our contact form on the About page.
Contact authorities: If you feel you're in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement.
Remember
Building a mentorship relationship takes time. Take things slowly, trust your instincts, and don't hesitate to set boundaries. A good mentor will always respect your comfort level and personal boundaries.