There are many different Models of Mentoring and not all of them will be appropriate in all situations, but sometimes it’s helpful to know what else is avaialable before taking the plunge and getting started. I thought then, that a brief overview of what some of the various models of mentoring might be, together with a more in-depth visit to each over the next few weeks to explore the various facets, pro’s and con’s might be.
One to One Mentoring
This is the model that we are most familiar with here in The Mowgli Foundation. It traditionally involves two people, the Mentor and the Mentee and a ‘contract’ of some description will exist between them. This can be a formal relationship or an informal arrangement and will to a large extent be dependent upon the needs of both individuals.
Co-Mentoring
This is a practice that may be adopted by two professionals in the same or similar fields. The general premise is that they will meet on a regular basis for a set period of time, say one to two hours and each person will have the chance to be mentored by the other before swapping over and repeating the exercise through reversing the roles.
Peer Mentoring
This is a type of mentoring that is most frequently seen in large businesses and also in education and it is often likened to the ‘buddy system’ which is where one person who is say ‘new’ to a job or a school can be coached in a specific area by someone older or more experienced. It is a system that is often used when cultural or social changes need to be assimilated quickly in order for the mentee to be working at the expected level of acheivement within a reasonable length of time.
Group Mentoring
Group mentoring normally consists of a small group of people – no more than about 12 usually – meeting on a regular basis for the purpose of development, usually related to personal development. A good example of group mentoring might be the writers or coaching circle, where the group receives mutual support from the group, as well as the ability to set goals and then build competencies around those goals. Normally, there will be at least one facilitator/Mentor to lead the group and it’s discussions.
