Inter-organizational mentoring: a four phase conceptual model for success

What is it about?

The purpose of this study is to present a conceptual model that comprises the four phases of an inter-organizational mentoring process. This study used a focus group of 19 expert coordinators on inter-organizational mentoring programs who met once at the Basque College of Economists. The session was recorded and notes were taken and distributed to all participants. Based on the focus group, the authors developed a four phase model of inter-organizational mentoring (IOM). The phases this conceptual model proposes for IOM are: awakening, transcendence, organizational bond, and maturity. These four phases should help mentors to guide mentees in the completion of an effective IOM process. This model is a re-conceptualization from the traditional mentoring phases as the nature of the mentoring process is different. However, getting to understand the phases of IOM will enlighten the understanding of this phenomena that is a growing option for managers in their career development as IOM helps managers to acquire skills and competencies. This work contributes to the comprehension of this new form of alternative mentoring, clarifying for mentees and mentors, what process they are going to follow. Additionally, it provides clear criteria for inter-organizational program coordinators on how to organize these kinds of programs. In the opinion of the authors, this paper is original because it provides an in-depth understanding of IOM, which is an HRD technique that has barely been studied to date. Keywords: alternative mentoring, inter-organizational mentoring, managerial development, mentoring phases, traditional mentoring. Find article here (free download): https://www.emeraldinsight.com/eprint/WnasZfIkecZFuiSE4WJg/full

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