The Session Framework
Great mentoring sessions are structured, not free-flowing. This framework ensures every session delivers value.
Pre-Session (24 hours before)
- ☐ Send the mentee a pre-session form:
- What’s the #1 thing you want to work on?
- What have you already tried?
- What does success look like for this session?
- ☐ Review their Zolra profile, startup, and any shared materials
- ☐ Prepare 2–3 questions based on their context
30-Minute Session Structure
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 min | Context & rapport | Quick intro, confirm focus area |
| 5–20 min | Deep dive | Ask probing questions, share frameworks, give specific advice |
| 20–25 min | Action items | Agree on 2–3 concrete next steps |
| 25–30 min | Wrap-up | Recap, offer follow-up availability, ask for feedback |
60-Minute Session Structure
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 min | Context & rapport | Quick intro, confirm session goals |
| 5–15 min | Situation assessment | Understand their current state deeply |
| 15–40 min | Working session | Co-create solutions: review their pitch, debug strategy, map options |
| 40–50 min | Action plan | Define 3–5 specific actions with deadlines |
| 50–60 min | Wrap-up & follow-up | Recap, suggest resources, schedule next session if needed |
Post-Session (within 24 hours)
- ☐ Send a session summary (3–5 bullet points)
- ☐ Include agreed action items with deadlines
- ☐ Share any resources, links, or templates discussed
- ☐ Add personal notes for your own records
- ☐ Politely ask for a rating on Zolra
Mentoring Dos and Don’ts
- Do: Ask before advising. Share specific examples. Be honest about what you don’t know.
- Don’t: Monologue for 20 minutes. Give generic advice. Promise introductions you can’t deliver.
- Do: Follow up on action items from previous sessions.
- Don’t: Try to be their co-founder or take over their decisions.