When I just started my UX/UI design career, I was desperate to have a mentor. I had so many questions that I don’t know who to ask. I had so much fear that I don’t know who to share with.

Like many people, I tried to reach out through Linkedin. I knew it is rude to ask someone I don’t even know to be my mentor. So I tried to have a coffee catch-up or some other tips I learned online. But unfortunately, it didn’t work.

Then I decided to search for UX mentorship online. Turned out there are a lot of platforms that are dedicated to UX mentoring. Some of them are free, and some of them cost money. To be honest, I am more than happy to pay for mentorship for several reasons. One, it saves me effort to convince a mentor to coach me. Second, it feels more equal when I am paying for the service.

You might be someone like me who wants to pay for mentorship. Or you prefer a free mentorship. No matter what is your preference, there are options out there. Today I am going to share 5 platforms where you can get started with your mentorship program.

1. ADP List

APD List

First thing first, it is FREE!

ADPList is a global community of mentors and learners, on a mission to democratise mentorship for all. A platform where people can find, book and meet mentors around the world.

2. Mentor Cruise

This is the platform I am using! I connected with a senior designer from IBM. It works well for me.

Mentor Cruise makes mentoring easier by putting all the information out there in the public:

• Are mentors available?
• How much do they want for their services?
• What can you expect from a mentorship?

3. Women in tech

The program was developed to support women in the STEM industry at all levels — for beginners who want to find their ways in tech and for executives who want to advance in their careers. Mentees are getting the opportunity to have 1–1 individual sessions with experienced mentors, personal guidance, and support.

Program fee :Free program
Without certificate — 0 €
With certificate — 20 €

4. Mentoring Club

The Mentoring Club is an open community which aims at supporting people who are keen to learn, grow and develop. Mentees can expect advice, which is based on year long experiences. Their mentors are open, give honest and direct feedback and, of course, guarantee full discretion.

5. Uxmentor Me

Who is UXmentor.me for?
- UX Designers or Researchers in their first job
- UX teams of one
- UX Designers or Researchers based in the UK

To read more, you can find me on Instagram or Linkedin.

I am Dana, thank you so much for reading. I will see you next time.