A systematic mentoring approach combines old and new concepts from organizational learning, including intentional learning, failure and success, and storytelling. Mentoring should be a process of mature development and a joint venture, with a learning contract that aligns the mentor, proteges, and the proteges' manager. (JOW)

It takes a special kind of mentor to establish a work environment in which people are ready and able to withstand changes, such as downsizing and reorganization. Mentoring is a learning partnership, and the mentor's main gifts are learning, advice, feedback, focus, and support. (JOW)

In a learning organization, growth, learning, improvement, and everlasting experimentation are woven into its culture and employees not in a perpetual state of change will be unable to cope. Mentors can assist by finding a teachable moment, providing support without rescuing, and demonstrating authenticity, not perfection. JOW)