Mentors

In Chapter 4 of the Small Group text, practicing mentors is quite important. A mentor is an older, experienced, and respectful member of an organization; as well as approachable and confident. Mentors generally assist other people because they have better understanding and knowledge of certain subjects. They also set out to be good role models for those who have less experience. Less-experienced members or employees are known as protege, and they must be open-minded and determined as well. Proteges benefit from being mentored because they learn new material, in which they will have better understanding of. The less-experienced are supported by their mentors only if they participate in the activities. There are four stages in mentoring: initiation, cultivation, separation, and redefinition. During the first stage of mentoring, the mentor and protege break the ice and get to know each other. In the cultivation stage, the mentor supports the protege with whatever they need. During the third stage (separation), both begin to drift due to transferring or being promoted to a different organization. In the redefinition stage of mentoring, the protege and mentors' relationship is evaluated. Even though it is the last stage, mentors can still give advice to proteges and help them with whatever they need.