The Job Rotation Program alumni network is built on a reciprocity model that enhances the program experience for all involved. The network cultivates a community and fosters the progressional growth of both alumni and current program participants, while also providing a way to “give back” to the program and the university.
- Alumni: Alumni receive support as they continue their career trajectory. Continued professional development helps alumni bring what they’ve learned into their new positions. Alumni also benefit from enhanced networking and have the opportunity to build mentoring and coaching skills.
- Current rotation employees: Current rotators receive guidance, advice, and inspiration from alumni, both in formal mentoring relationships and at networking events.
- Job Rotation Program: The program benefits from engaged alumni who contribute to its success by providing feedback, putting forth new ideas, and mentoring current rotators.
- UW–Madison: Units across campus can develop and retain strong talent and achieve increased representation from underrepresented populations in key administrative roles.
Interactions with others support professional and personal growth
Under the 70-20-10 Model of Development, 20 percent of an employee’s development should come from the feedback and relationships that result from interactions with others. The alumni network represents the 20 percent of the model.
70%
On-the-job experiences
20%
Interactions with others
10%
Formal professional development
Job Rotation Program components
The alumni network enhances the experience provided to program alumni and current participants in three areas.
- Community: Through the alumni network, participants can continue to build on the network they formed during the program.
- Mentoring: Through a mentorship selection process, alumni and current rotators will be grouped based on their interests and career goals. By serving as mentors, program alumni will gain experience in coaching and fostering mutual professional relationships, as well as serving as role models.
- Training and development: The alumni network will offer access to training and development opportunities designed to help participants — including both alumni and current program members —achieve their career goals.
Three-pronged approach to alumni engagement
Small group mentoring
Small group mentoring enhances professional development, relationship building, and networking opportunities for both mentors and mentees. Activities include group groups consisting of alumni and current rotators in their first and second year of the program, as well as mentoring circles. The mentoring circles are designed to support program alumni in their role as mentors through the alumni network.
Large group sessions
These sessions engage alumni in professional development opportunities based on their interest and feedback. Optional activities include alumni-focused sessions, attendance at conferences, and civic engagements.
Whole program opportunities
Throughout the year, the program hosts a variety of events and engagements for all alumni, rotators, and in many cases, other program stakeholders. For alumni, these provide an opportunity to interact with others, network, and contribute to the success and evolution of the Job Rotation Program.
Whole program opportunities vary widely in scope and focus; they currently include the annual open house, advisory committee participation, an annual retrospective activity, participation in the BIPOC Affinity Group, and assisting with ongoing recruitments.