Some studies suggest it is better for women to have female mentors, others say that male mentors are better because they have readier access to existing power structures. All studies suggest that having a mentor is beneficial and having several mentors is even better. In the instances where you are in a cross-gender mentoring relationship, there are likely to be both advantages and disadvantages. The research suggestions that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages and studies, as well as MentorNet's own program evaluation, have found that satisfaction with mentoring relationships is not dependent on the genders of the mentor and prot g being the same. Therefore men may be better able to open doors and make connections for others.
Men view and consider power and influence differently than women do.
Because the power structures have been designed by a male culture, the training a woman receives from a male mentor may help her adjust and advance more quickly. Women and men are both socialized to believe that a man's opinion counts more than a woman's does. Some women may internalize encouragement and support from a male mentor more easily than the same praise from a female mentor. With clear communication, this can be successfully resolved. Women may not perceive that men understand work-family conflicts.