Mentoring requires effort, patience, and commitment. However, like most challenging endeavors, its rewards far exceed its tribulations. Mentoring can be refreshingly nourishing to an organization and give it a boost to achieve greatness. If utilized genuinely, consistently, and strategically, it can remedy many organizational problems and provide an enriched work environment.

Mentoring benefits for protégés include

• increased likelihood for success, as mentors help protégés gain competency and avoid failure;

• assistance in setting goals and charting career paths;

• encouragement and opportunities for new experiences and professional growth

• help to avoid pitfalls and learn through real-life examples;

• enhancement of feelings of worth to the mentor and the organization; and

• support to foster self-confidence by cheering achievements.

Many successful people attribute their achievements to a mentoring relationship. The first step toward institutionalizing mentoring in an agency is mentoring of new employees.