Understanding Formal & Informal Mentoring
Posted by Grace Sanchez on Mon, Jan 11, 2010 @ 02:30 PM
It's important to understand the difference between formal and informal mentoring. Why? Because different mentoring processes require different strategies and include different benchmarks and goals.
Formal mentoring programs include:
- Connection to a strategic business objective of the organization
- Established goals
- Measurable outcomes
- Open access for all who qualify
- Strategic pairing of mentors and mentorees
- Mentoring engagements lasting 9-12 months
- Expert training and support
- Direct organizational benefits
Informal mentoring programs include:
- Unspecified goals
- Unknown outcomes
- Limited access to the program
- Self-selection of mentors and mentorees
- Long-term mentoring
- No expert training or support
- Indirect organizational benefits
Formal mentoring, when combined with mentoring training, provides the most effective professional development program available. Learn how your organization can benefit from a formal mentoring program. Call us at 617-789-4622 or contact us today.