Most companies around the globe clearly believe that people should have the opportunity to achieve as much as their initiative and native talent can justify, but too many managers still lack the wherewithal to effectively groom junior employees who have the potential to climb the corporate ladder. The support of a mentor is an integral part of any effort to maximize someone's full potential. A mentor-protégé relationship has many unique features, which both sides of the relationship need to understand and appreciate.

Serving in the role of mentor to protégés involves providing highly individualized guidance from someone with the appropriate background, life, and work experiences and, importantly, an avid interest in helping others reach their life and career goals. 9 Powerful Practices of Really Great Mentors features a set of proven techniques for those who serve as mentors in a variety of contexts, but particularly in the workplace.