Module 3/4 30 min
Running it, intervening when pairs go cold, and measuring
Step 1 / 4·The organiser's check-in rhythm
0/4 steps done
Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Set a check-in rhythm for the programme
- Spot and act when a pair goes cold
- Measure impact with metrics that mean something
Learn ~8 min
The organiser's check-in rhythm
Know when to touch the programme.
The most common operating mistake is one of two extremes: abandoning the programme after the launch event, or monitoring so closely it becomes an irritation. The right rhythm is light but regular.
A suggested rhythm for a six-month programme
| Point | What the organisers do | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Week 0 | A joint induction for mentors and mentees | Set the right expectations and agree the rules |
| Week 3 | One short question: have you had your first meeting yet | Catch pairs that have not started — the highest-risk group |
| Month 2 | A three-question survey to both sides | Detect mismatched expectations while there is still time to fix them |
| Month 3 | A mid-point gathering for all participants | Build the lateral network and refresh motivation |
| Month 5 | A reminder to prepare the closing meeting and record outcomes | Ensure the relationship ends deliberately rather than drifting |
| Month 6 | A closing session and a full evaluation survey | Gather data for the next cohort |
The week 3 question is the most important one
A pair that has not managed a first meeting within three weeks will almost certainly never start. One message at exactly that point rescues more pairs than every other activity in the programme combined.
Key takeaway: Light but regular; the week 3 question about the first meeting is the highest-yield intervention.