An invitation to visit a resource center together, a map to a good bookstore across town, or a shared ride to some event. Information about ways to gain the support of key individuals. Suggestions for acquiring scarce resources. An invitation to a weekend barbecue or small get-together with other colleagues. Mentors also need to offer their proteges challenges that stimulate professional growth and cause them to stretch.
Challenges lead to the development of new levels of expertise.
When the amount of challenge is well matched to the mentee's readiness for growth, the tasks become motivating. Challenges that are not matched well with the individual's level of development can be overwhelming and create feelings of being unable to cope. Then, rather than producing growth, the challenge may lead to frustration, panic or feelings of failure. It becomes important then, for mentors to become sensitive to the growth needs of those to whom they mentor, and attempt to offer optimal challenges for their protege's professional development. Some mentors develop mentoring plans to help maintain optional levels of challenge for the protege.