Mentointi
Mentointi is the Finnish term for mentoring. It describes a developmental relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) provides guidance, support, and knowledge to a less experienced individual (the mentee) to foster personal and professional growth. Mentoring typically covers broad career development over time, and is distinct from coaching, which focuses on specific skills, and from sponsorship, which emphasizes access to opportunities.
Key elements include careful pairing, clear learning goals, regular meetings, constructive feedback, and a written development
Models and formats include one-to-one mentoring, group mentoring, and peer mentoring. There are also reverse mentoring
Benefits for mentees include skill development, expanded networks, and increased confidence and advancement. Mentors often gain
Challenges include time constraints, poor mentor–mentee fit, mismatched goals, power dynamics, cultural or language barriers, and
Best practices include clearly defined objectives, mentor training, mentee preparation, ongoing support, regular monitoring, evaluation, and