A mentor works on two levels, both supporting the protégée in meeting essential job duties and helping her envision and take steps toward the career she desires. A mentor combines instruction in professional behavior and tasks with affective support. A mentor may fulfill all or a combination of roles. The mentor:
• Advocates – Offers sponsorship, provides exposure and visibility within the organization.
• Acquires resources – Brings critical readings, opportunities, or experiences to the attention of the protégée.
• Acts as a role model – Offers insight on how he or she “made it” in the organization.
• Advises – Shares institutional and professional wisdom, critiques performance, makes suggestions.
• Coaches – Helps a protégée learn new skills and practice new behaviors.
• Protects – Helps a protégée find new and challenging opportunities within the organization while protecting her from adverse forces and “dead-end” job assignments.
• Supports – Listens with a sympathetic ear, explains unwritten rules, and acknowledges disappointments