Mentoring relationships develop for many reasons. Roles -A mentor has no official role or responsibilities. The mentor's primary responsibility is to provide support and assistance to the new faculty member.
Possible roles encompass a wide range of possibilities.
At various times, a new faculty member may need the mentor to be a confidant, counselor, friend, problem-solver, coach, advocate, mediator or protector. Recognize that mentoring is very situational and circumstantial. Therefore, encourage multiple mentors. Nurture and be a support for the new faculty member in what is probably a very stressful time. Meet frequently to determine what issues may emerge, especially throughout the first semester.