ABSTRACT
This chapter is based on a range of source material from the mentoring literature. Interestingly, in work-based relationships, mentors and mentees often report that the main topic of conversation within mentoring relates to time. An individuals holistic development is generally acquired through a combination of one-to-one social learning processes, wider social interactions and reflection over time. Hurley and Fagenson-Eland identify three types of intimacy or closeness in work-related cross-gender mentoring relationships: non-sexual psychological intimate relationships, office romances, sexual harassment. The real danger for mentoring is the tendency for it to be adopted as a strategy for facilitating learning and change without due consideration for the social setting or the cultural context. Mentoring is a human activity and is therefore subject to human frailties. It is important to remember that mentoring is a human relationship treated with integrity and respect.
