What Is Mentoring in the Workplace?
Mentoring programs are becoming more common in all companies across the world. These are adopted by both small and large organizations. The mentoring exercise is a process in which a senior and more experienced individual assists the development of his subordinate. The senior is called the mentor, and he advises, counsels and guides the subordinate to perform to the best of her abilities. The mentor also provides clarifications of doubts as they occur. The mentoring exercise is beneficial to both the organization and the employee being mentored.
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Employee Development
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Mentoring sessions hone and develop the latent skills and talents of the employees. The mentor is one who has vast knowledge and experience on the job and in the company. He therefore cultivates the performance of the subordinate. He coaches the subordinate on the technical requirements of the job, the policies and practices of the organization and on interpersonal skills. Because the mentor is supportive of the subordinate, the rapport and camaraderie between both of them is strong.
Career Advancement
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By guiding and supporting the subordinate, the mentor helps her advance further in her career. In the event that the mentor leaves the organization, this exercise ensures that the subordinate is equipped to take on his place, roles and duties. The mentor would by that time have provided her with hands-on training to take on higher responsibility. The work in the organization does not suffer. Also, the HR department does not have to face the hassle of finding a new employee to fill the vacancy.
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Higher Motivational Levels
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Mentoring ensures higher levels of work satisfaction and motivation. The mentor brings out the best in the subordinate. Also, as the subordinate now understands the job better, she performs it more effectively and diligently. The mentor explains to her both requirements of the job and the organizational goals and objectives. The employee begins to feel a sense of belonging with the organization and strives to perform her duties well.
Low Turnover Rates
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The rates of employee turnover are greatly reduced by mentoring. The employees are given a helping hand throughout their stay in the organization. The subordinates are trained and developed to perform their duties better. When they deliver results, management lauds them for their efforts and performance. Also, because they are provided avenues of career advancement; they feel obligated to stay with the organization for as long as possible.
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