Chances to find mentors today are jeopardized for both sexes by the sheer number of changes professionals make in their careers and the volatility of the job market. It can appear that the only way to get a mentor is to knock on doors. Research does show that women don't seek out mentoring relationships as easily as men. If you want to motivate employees to join a corporate e-mentoring program, those employees will want to know your plan encourages action. We have made matches across the U.S. and internationally.
Mentors using email also can support more than one mentee at a time.
Another big plus is that email writers have to think through issues and responses, and there is a record of those responses for later, thoughtful review. Harrington also points out that not all professionals own computers, and that email is not confidential. In Van Zandt's model, phone and in-person meetings occur as may be appropriate within companies. Mentors in any mode of communication are urged not to automatically assume feedback is understood. Using a business email, in any interpretation here, sends a totally wrong and inappropriate message.