Categories and Types of Mentoring

Mentoring has existed for centuries, perhaps since the dawn of civilization. The evolution of mentoring has escalated in recent decades, and today we see many types of mentoring. Mentoring can be categorized by:

1. Degree of Formality:
• Informal or Casual Mentoring
• Formal Mentoring
2. Functions and Goals:
• Educational or Academic Mentoring
• Career Mentoring
• Personal Development Mentoring
• Cultural and Faith Based Mentoring
3. Settings


• Community Based Mentoring
• School Based Mentoring
• Workplace Mentoring
• Internet Mentoring
4. Number of Mentees


• One-to-one Mentoring
• Group Mentoring
• Family Mentoring

New and innovative types of mentoring continue to develop as the awareness of the need for mentoring increases. To expand your understanding of the importance of mentoring programs, examine The Need for Mentoring Programs.

<< previous  |  next >>