By Diana Digges Whether you're a circus performer navigating a tightrope for the first time or a new employee checking out office politics, you probably could use a mentor. You need someone who understands what you need to know and who practices the fine art of encouragement. At its best, mentoring can be a wonderful thing. In the last decade, the practice has evolved from an experimental technique to management strategy to a full-blown cult. Seasoned professionals offer guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Female executives help other women crack the glass ceiling.
Wise alumni take uncertain young graduates under their wings. Those who've kicked drugs help addicts who want to quit. Cancer survivors give hope to the newly stricken. People unhappy with their careers think they'll find a solution in The Mentor. Mentoring is so popular, in fact, that it has spawned unrealistic expectations.