Purpose
SCORE is committed to providing high-quality mentoring and education services to help clients achieve their business goals. To ensure a positive and productive mentoring relationship, all clients are expected to adhere to the following code of conduct. This Code of Conduct governs the conduct of clients and will be enforced by SCORE. As such, this Code does not give rise to a legal cause of action, create a presumption, serve as evidence that a legal duty has been breached, or form the basis for governmental enforcement proceedings.
Respect and Professionalism
Respect for Mentors: Treat your SCORE mentors with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. Recognize and appreciate the expertise and time they contribute voluntarily.
Do not engage in any form of insensitive behavior or harassment, including but not limited to sexual harassment.
Do not discriminate against any person based on race, color, gender identity/expression, national origin, age, religion, marital status, handicap, sexual orientation, or other protected class.
Do not engage in any destructive behavior (physically, verbally, in writing, or online) against SCORE representatives, including volunteers, staff, and agents.
Abide by all applicable local, state, and federal laws when working with your mentor.
Timeliness: Be punctual for scheduled mentoring sessions. Notify your mentor in advance if you need to reschedule or cancel a meeting, giving as much notice as possible.
Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your mentor. Share relevant information about your business and be receptive to feedback and suggestions.
Commitment to Learning
Commitment to Improvement: Demonstrate a commitment to achieving your professional goals by actively participating in the mentoring process and thoughtfully considering the advice and strategies discussed with your mentor.
Preparation: Come prepared for mentoring sessions with specific questions and topics for discussion. Take initiative in your business planning and development.
Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to your mentor about the mentoring process. Share what is working well and discuss any concerns or areas for improvement.
Confidentiality and Trust
Confidentiality: Respect the confidentiality of information shared during mentoring sessions. Do not disclose sensitive or proprietary information without permission.
Trust and Integrity: Build a relationship of trust with your mentor. Be honest and transparent about your business challenges and successes.
Professionalism in Conduct
Ethical Conduct: Conduct your business affairs with integrity and in accordance with ethical standards. Avoid engaging in activities that could harm your business or the reputation of SCORE.
Appropriate Requests: Limit your requests to areas within the expertise of SCORE mentors. Understand that mentors provide guidance and suggestions but do not execute tasks on behalf of clients.
Compliance
Compliance with Policies: Adhere to all policies and guidelines, including this Code of Conduct as well as SCORE’s Website Terms of Use and Privacy Policy set forth by SCORE. Any violations may result in prohibition from further SCORE services.
Reporting
If you witness or experience any violations of this Code of Conduct, promptly report the incident to contactus@score.org or any other member of the SCORE staff. Provide detailed information about the incident, including the individuals involved, the time and location, and any supporting witnesses and evidence. Reports will be treated with confidentiality and addressed in a timely manner. Any participant experiencing or witnessing behavior that at any time in their judgment constitutes an immediate or serious threat to public safety is advised to contact 911 immediately.
Consent Agreement
By adhering to this Code of Conduct, you, the client, contribute to a positive and effective relationship with SCORE. SCORE mentors are committed to helping you succeed, and your cooperation ensures a mutually beneficial mentoring experience.
By submitting your Mentoring Request Form, you consent and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by the SCORE Mentoring Services Code of Conduct.
