Mentoring has become an established way of helping medical academics and biomedical scientists establish their careers. But there are still various descriptions of what Mentoring actually is and how it can be used.

Mentoring is essentially about helping people to help themselves and is most commonly used to describe the (formal or informal) process whereby an experienced person (the mentor), guides another individual (the mentee) in their personal, professional development.

Successful Mentoring grows from a relationship based on mutual respect, trust and confidentiality. Mentors provide support and encouragement and share their own experiences (including how they overcame difficulties) along the path to success without being judgmental or directive. Mentors can also offer insights into different courses of action and assist mentees in making informed and appropriate choices and decisions.

Many employers and educational organisations now provide mentoring schemes and mentor development courses are also available from a number of providers.