Peer mentoring is a specific type of knowledge sharing that can be especially beneficial in the jewellery industry. Peer mentors are jewellery professionals who can provide guidance and support to other jewellery professionals. They share their knowledge about the industry, help with problem-solving, and provide emotional support, allowing mentees - whether newcomers or not - to develop their skills, and build their confidence.

Benefits

Helping to break down silos and create a more collaborative environment.

• Building relationships within the jewellery industry.

• Promoting diversity and inclusion in the jewellery industry.

• Sharing knowledge and expertise across the industry. Mentees can learn from the wealth of knowledge of more experienced professionals. Being provided with guidance and support can help mentees to overcome challenges.

This means that anyone in the jewellery industry has the potential to become either a mentor or a mentee. This type of peer mentoring can be especially beneficial because it allows for a more diverse range of perspectives and experiences to be shared.

For example, a jeweller with 20 years of experience could mentor a jeweller with 5 years of experience on topics such as business development, marketing, or sales. The jeweller with 5 years of experience could then mentor a the jeweller with 20 years of experience on topics such as new technologies, social media, or customer service.

In addition, mentors everywhere will tell you 'one of the best ways to learn is to teach'. If you are a jewellery professional, we strongly encourage you to consider becoming a peer mentor. You can make a real difference in the lives of other jewellery professionals and yourself at the same time while helping to strengthen the jewellery industry as a whole.