Which of the following statements on mentoring is true? Select all that apply.
A Mentoring is characterized by mutual trust and respect.
B Mentoring typically endures beyond a single tour of duty.
C Mentoring is the leadership interaction that best establishes performance goals.
D Mentoring is a voluntary, developmental relationship between an experienced person and one of lesser experience.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answers are:
A. Mentoring is characterized by mutual trust and respect.
B. Mentoring typically endures beyond a single tour of duty.
D. Mentoring is a voluntary, developmental relationship between an experienced person and one of lesser experience.
Explanation:
A. Mentoring is characterized by mutual trust and respect.
Mentoring involves a strong foundation of mutual trust and respect between the mentor (the experienced individual) and the mentee (the less experienced individual). This relationship is built on the mentor’s willingness to share knowledge and experiences and the mentee’s openness to learn and grow. Trust ensures that the mentee feels safe in sharing challenges and aspirations, while respect ensures the mentor values the mentee’s development.
B. Mentoring typically endures beyond a single tour of duty.
Unlike other forms of leadership or supervision that may be temporary or project-based, mentoring is often a long-term relationship. Mentors often stay in contact with mentees for years, guiding them as their careers evolve. This enduring relationship allows for continuous development, ensuring that the mentee can benefit from ongoing advice as they encounter new challenges or move to different roles.
D. Mentoring is a voluntary, developmental relationship between an experienced person and one of lesser experience.
Mentoring is generally a voluntary arrangement in which the mentor chooses to help develop someone with less experience. The focus is on the professional and personal growth of the mentee, which typically involves guidance, advice, and support over time. Unlike supervisory roles, mentoring is not bound by formal job responsibilities but by the desire to foster growth and provide valuable learning experiences.
Why C is incorrect:
C. Mentoring is the leadership interaction that best establishes performance goals.
While mentoring can indeed help mentees set and achieve performance goals, it is not primarily focused on establishing those goals. Performance goal setting is often more associated with direct leadership or management roles, where the emphasis is on task completion and measurable outcomes. Mentoring is more about guidance, professional growth, and developing the mentee’s overall capabilities rather than strictly goal-setting.