The mentoring cycle

The aim of this chapter is to explore the mentoring cycle and in particular, the concept of phases within the context of the mentoring relationship. The chapter begins by outlining a number of models that describe how mentoring relationships develop over time, such as Kram (1980, 1983), Missirian (1982), Clutterbuck (1985; 2004), and Westland (2015). The mentee and mentor perspective is explored by understanding the experiences of each, through insight, during various stages of the relationship. Next, the author identifies a number of empirical studies that have ‘tested’ the models to better understand their application to specific contexts (Westland, 2015). The models are compared and contrasted in order to identify the challenges associated with the concept of the mentoring cycle. The author also considers factors that influence the mentoring cycle and the effectiveness of the mentoring relationship. Finally, the author considers the implications of the mentoring cycle from a number of perspectives: mentoring relationships, program design, training for mentees and mentors, and future research agendas for both researchers and practitioners.