What is mentoring?

In the 21st Century we are encouraged to reduce our carbon footprint by recycling resources and consider how our daily actions can save energy for the future of our planet. As consumers, we are now prepared to repair rather than replace and buy second hand rather than new.

This shift towards seeing the value in what we already have is now beginning to lead corporate organisations to not only recycle paper but also to recycle the talents of their people by introducing mentoring into their corporate culture.

For those, who are unfamiliar with the concept of mentoring, it is often surprising that as soon as I start to explain and give examples, everyone recognises that at some time in their life they have experienced the benefits of mentoring. We can all think of times when a parent has given us good advice or a teacher gave encouragement. Do you remember who helped you to ride a bicycle? What you may not have done is thought of this person as a mentor.

Mentoring is "the informal learning that happens in many different environments, making it an exceptionally effective option for businesses or organisations" (Glasgow Mentoring Network). To support through periods of change by giving advice and support to someone who values your knowledge and experience. In our personal life, mentoring comes to us in different forms; for example, family, peer group, teachers, church, youth leaders, friends and neighbours, all of whom could have given good advice or support at times when we needed it most.

How can it help my organisation?

Organisations need to ask whether their people have all the skills they need and display behaviour that delights customers every single day.

Large organisations are beginning to understand that by using their existing talent they are creating an environment where everyone wins. Mentors can help colleagues develop new skills, improve confidence, resolve potential conflict, encourage creativity and speed up the learning process.

Smaller organisations find mentoring a much more efficient way to retain and develop existing talent. As the business expands and grows there is natural succession-planning which allows the business to maintain quality for the customer; staff tend to be promoted from within, whilst new employees can be recruited for skills and behaviour that will align to the existing brand values of the company.

Who are the Mentors?

Mentors are people who have knowledge, skills and experience that can be replicated within a business or organisation. All organisations will have employees who do a fantastic job; they understand the business, turn up everyday, can work on their own initiative and would be sorely missed if they left. It is sometimes striking that the 'indispensable employee' often seems to be invisible. Many managers spend most time on what is not going well, whether it be a process or a behaviour; attention rarely falls upon the employees who keep the wheels turning 'come hail or shine'. This may undermine motivation, promoting feelings of apathy for those employees who are committed and deliver for the organisation.

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