Barbara Kurshan’s article in Forbes on mentoring for incubators and start-ups has a lot of great information with broad applicability for larger organizations, as well. About three years ago, Kurshan helped launch EDSi, the Education Design Studio incorporation, a private incubator that operates in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, and the article focuses on the lessons she has learned from her experience.
Kurshan recommends establishing guidelines for both mentors and mentees that cover expectations, responsibilities, and etiquette. I really believe in peer mentoring, as long as it occurs in a “safe” environment, and explicit communication is the keystone to a positive and successful mentoring relationship.
Read more of Kurshan’s lessons in mentoring best practices at The Mentor/Mentee Relationship: Lessons For Incubators And Accelerators.