ACC Mentor Match - Frequently Asked Questions

Launched in April 2026, the Guided Mentoring Cohort is a structured six-month mentoring experience that runs alongside the self-directed ACC Mentor Match program. It adds a layer of coaching, resources, and community to help participants get more from each mentoring meeting.

• A virtual kickoff workshop led by an ACC coach, with a clear meeting structure and first-step actions
• Monthly discussion questions and one article or recorded session to use in your mentoring meetings
• Scheduled email reminders and optional virtual check-ins to keep your meetings on track
• A shared online space to ask questions and exchange ideas with other cohort participants
• Recognition and the option to serve as a Mentor Match ambassador at program completion

The self-directed program lets you set your own pace, agenda, and meeting frequency with your mentor. The Guided Cohort adds structured milestones, monthly topics, and group support — while using the same matching platform. You choose whichever format fits your schedule and learning style.

Yes. The Guided Cohort is an additional option, not a replacement. Members already matched through the self-directed program can join a cohort without re-enrolling.

The next cohort launches in October 2026. Enrollment closes September 30. Email mentoring@acc.com to be notified when enrollment opens.

ACC Mentor Match is an exclusive mentoring program for ACC members, designed to foster professional growth through meaningful mentor-mentee relationships. Members can connect based on experience, expertise, and career goals.

Only active ACC members are eligible to enroll as Mentors, Mentees, or both. Not an ACC member? Join ACC today.

No, the program is a free benefit of ACC membership.

You'll complete a short profile during your enrollment. Mentees can then search for Mentors based on criteria like industry, experience, or skills and send a request. Mentors can accept or decline based on availability and fit.

Yes. You can enroll in both roles using two separate enrollment flows — one for mentors and one for mentees. Complete each profile separately so the platform can match you appropriately in each role. Keep in mind the time commitment: each active relationship requires approximately two hours per month.

Yes. ACC Mentor Match is open to all active ACC members globally. You can match with mentors or mentees in any country. Most meetings are held virtually, which makes cross-border relationships straightforward. There are no regional restrictions on matching.

Enroll as a mentor and complete your profile. Be sure to update your experience and availability.

Active ACC members at any career stage — from attorneys new to in-house practice to experienced counsel navigating leadership transitions. Most mentees are looking for guidance on career direction, moving in-house, building leadership skills, or expanding their professional network.

Yes, you can mentor up to two mentees at a time. Set your limit based on your availability in your Mentor Profile.

Use the Find a Mentee feature to search profiles and send connection requests.

You'll receive an email notification with the request and can review the Mentee's profile before accepting or declining.

Yes. If the match isn't the right fit, you can politely decline. A brief conversation before declining can be helpful.

Log into your mentor profile and select "Stop accepting new mentees." You can pause immediately or set a future date to stop. Your active mentoring relationships are not affected.

If the relationship has naturally concluded or isn't working out, have an open conversation with your Mentee. Then update the status in the program portal under Mentoring Relationships.

• Commit to a mentoring relationship for at least six months.
• Communicate regularly with your Mentee.
• Offer guidance and support based on your experience.

A minimum of two hours per month for six months. Meetings can be virtual or in person.

• Make a lasting impact by guiding the next generation of in-house and legal operations professionals.
• Strengthen your leadership, coaching, and communication skills.
• Build valuable relationships with peers across the globe.

The formal match closes after six months, but you and your mentee can choose to continue the relationship informally or re-enroll for another term. Many pairs stay connected well beyond the initial match — the six months is a starting point, not a finish line.

Enroll as a mentee and complete your profile with your career goals and interests.

Experienced in-house counsel and legal operations professionals who volunteer their time to guide other ACC members. Mentors come from a wide range of industries, practice areas, company sizes, and career stages — from senior associate GCs to chief legal officers.

No, each Mentee is paired with one Mentor at a time, for a six-month term.

Use the Find a Mentor feature to browse profiles by area of expertise, skills, or industry. Then send a request to a Mentor who aligns with your goals.

Wait one to two weeks. If there is no response, follow up using the contact details in their profile under Mentoring Relationships.

If the relationship isn't working, have an open conversation with your Mentor. Then update the status in the program portal under Mentoring Relationships and search for a new match.

Meetings can be virtual, by phone, or in person — whatever works best for both parties.

The initial commitment is six months, but you and your Mentor can decide to extend the relationship beyond that term.

The formal match closes after six months. You can re-enroll and search for a new mentor, continue your existing relationship informally, or join the Guided Mentoring Cohort for a more structured next step.