Mentoring in its most basic form is the transfer of knowledge and experience for mutual benefit. It is one of the most powerful methods of developing skills and talent and has become a cornerstone of growth and efficiency within organisations.

The two main models of mentoring are:

Sponsorship mentoring

Emphasises the mentor’s power and influence and is largely a one-way learning process.

Developmental mentoring

Emphasises support for self-development and self-career management on the part of the mentee. CA pioneered developmental mentoring and has championed it as an internationally established developmental model.

Is there a difference between coaching and mentoring?

We believe there is a clear difference in the in-house context, but the difference becomes less relevant for external coaches and mentors.

In the context of entrepreneurial or community development schemes, the focus can be on transferring specific skills or on general mentee support, but for both of these, research has shown that the quality of the relationship is the key element for success. Therefore the emphasis is on the “soft” mentoring skills, with coaching skills being used as required within the relationship.

Check the Downloads section  for some articles on mentoring in Southern Africa.