Mentor Matching: A ‘Goodness of Fit’ Model

Abstract

One of the few mentoring topics that has received little attention in the abundant mentoring literature is the determinants of organically formed – (as opposed for formal program-based) mentoring relationships. We propose a "Goodness of Fit" model which outlines the basic elements of the mentor-protégé match, viewing the relationship as a social exchange based on the fit among mentor and protégé preferences, endowments, and the content of knowledge transmitted. After presenting the model, we provide a few illustrative research questions that flow from the basic logic and terms of the model.