mentorship d9

Decoding the "D9" Mentorship Framework

The “D9” framework, popularized by Lenny Rachitsky, is a powerful method for structuring effective 1:1 mentorship. It’s designed to move beyond superficial check-ins and dive into actionable growth. It stands for nine key areas to discuss with your mentor: Dreams, Dashboards, Blockers, Wins, Losses, Learning, Next Week, Risks/Concerns, and Gratitude.

Why D9 Matters (And Why Most Mentorship Fails)

Most mentorship relationships fall flat because they lack structure. Traditional networks often connect you with people, but leave how to utilize that connection entirely up to you. Booking-only platforms facilitate a transaction, not a relationship. The D9 framework solves this. It ensures consistent, focused conversations that drive real progress. It’s about building a social mentorship – a continuous, reciprocal relationship – rather than a one-off advice session. It forces both mentor and mentee to be prepared, honest, and focused on forward momentum.

3 Steps to Implement D9 Today:

1. Document Your Baseline: Before your next mentorship meeting, briefly write down your current status in each of the D9 areas. This isn’t a novel – bullet points are fine.
2. Share in Advance: Send your D9 notes to your mentor before the meeting. This allows them to prepare thoughtful responses and avoid wasting valuable time.
3. Follow the Script: During the meeting, systematically work through each D9 area. Don’t skip sections, even if they feel uncomfortable. Honesty is key.

Beyond the Framework: The Power of a Growth Network

Understanding the D9 framework is a great first step, but simply knowing it isn’t enough. Consistent application requires accountability, a supportive community, and access to relevant resources. That’s where a dedicated growth network like Menteo comes in.

Menteo isn’t just about finding a mentor; it’s about embedding mentorship into your growth process. Here’s how we amplify the D9 framework:

• Mentorship Rooms: Dedicated spaces for structured 1:1 conversations, perfectly suited for following the D9 agenda.
• Growth Threads: Publicly document your progress (and struggles!) applying the D9 framework. This fosters accountability and allows others to learn from your journey.
• Roadmaps: Access curated learning paths aligned with your career goals, providing context for your “Dreams” and “Learning” sections of D9.
• Communities: Connect with peers also focused on growth, sharing D9 insights and supporting each other.

Don't let the D9 framework become another unused tool. Find a mentor on Menteo today and unlock your full potential: https://thementeo.com/mentors