Case $53$: The Mentoring Problem at Walnut Insurance

Read the case on page $161$ and answer questions on page $163.$

OVERVIEW:

This case demonstrates some of the important issues that surround the development of employees through the use of mentoring. Many firms believe that mentoring employees is important, yet it is not without problems as this actual case shows. The case raises the question of whether mentoring should be done on a voluntary basis or whether it should be required. It raises the issue of how important mentoring is to women in terms of upward mobility. The case also addresses sexual harassment issues. Finally, the case raises the issue of what are the alternatives to mentoring.

OBJECTIVES:

To familiarize students with some of the potential problems with using mentoring as a means for developing employee skills and abilities.

To familiarize students with alternatives to the use of mentoring.

Answer case questions:

If you were Tom Morrison, would you implement a formal mentoring program? Is so$,$ how would you address the VP$\text{'}$s concerns?

What alternatives to a mentoring program are available to Morrrison?