The mentor also gains access to what subordinates are thinking, and they, in turn, gain insight about the organization and the Army at large. Mentors learn what is working well and what is not and gain valuable and honest feedback from those who make the organization work. The mentor can use those who are mentored to help impart new ideas and ways of doing business throughout the organization and beyond. Mentoring provides both security and courage to those mentored. Security occurs because there is someone with whom to check signals.
Courage comes from the knowledge gained.
The mentor provides focus for young leaders' natural curiosity to learn and explore the various components of soldiering. The mentor serves as a guide to help young leaders gain the most from beneficial experience while helping them avoid potential pitfalls. The mentor can teach both the art and science of a thousand important topics and can expose young leaders to expert knowledge on the subtleties of various job skills. More important, the mentor can model the enduring values and positive spirit so important to the Army. Mentoring brings both participants exhilaration and exhaustion.