Exploring the factors affecting career progression in informal faculty mentoring sessions within mentor and mentee relationships: a qualitative study

What is it about?

Mentoring is a crucial component of inter-professional faculty growth and development. This study identified various factors in mentor-mentee relationships that affect the career progression of mentees in informal faculty mentoring sessions.

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Why is it important?

The findings of this study highlight several important implications for enhancing career progression through mentoring in academic health facilities. First, there is a clear need for training programs to equip mentors with the skills and clarify expectations for mentees. These programs should emphasise fostering effective communication, empathy, and active listening, which were crucial for building trust and facilitating open dialogue. We recommend that the elements of informal mentoring, particularly the mentee's ability to choose their mentor, should be preserved within formal mentoring programs to enhance the positive outcomes of the mentoring relationship. Moreover, creating a more supportive environment for faculty members seeking informal mentoring is also essential, as it can encourage more faculty members to engage in these valuable relationships.