Key Success Factors in Implementing Sustainable Mentor Programmes in Large Organisations

Abstract

It is widely recognised that mentoring is key for retention, employee performance and a culture of learning and development (Clark 2017), however, organisations are still struggling to implement a sustainable framework where mentoring can flourish. This article critically reflects on how to make mentoring programmes successful and sustainable in large global organisations. Based on data collected from the coaching and supervision notes of five international coaches in two global orgnisations between 2013 and 2017, the article develops practical recommendations on how mentoring can be supported by different stakeholders so that mentor programmes can be used as a sustainable development tool. It aims to bring clarity to the concept of mentoring and offers clear guidelines for diverse organisations and institutions on how to set up mentor programmes and which pitfalls need to be avoided. It also reviews key drivers of mentor programmes, assesses the benefits for the individual and organisation and reflect on to trends in mentor programmes such as reverse mentoring.