Seeing eye to eye: A dyadic investigation of the effect of relational demography on perceptions of mentoring activities

Abstract

Purpose

To examine the influence of demographic differences on congruence of mentors' and protégés' perceptions of developmental support and frequency of communication.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on demographics (organizational tenure, age, gender, and educational level), mentoring functions, and frequency of communication were collected from both the mentor and protégé in 27 mentoring dyads from two medium‐sized high technology companies. Correlation and pattern analysis were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results indicated significant congruence between mentor and protégé perceptions of developmental mentoring and frequency of communication. Differences between the mentor and protégé on organizational tenure and age reduced congruence of perceptions, whereas differences with respect to gender and education did not.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size limits the statistical power of the analysis and the inclusion of high technology companies limits generalizability.

Practical implications

While mentors and protégés generally view aspects of their relationship in a congruent manner, large discrepancies in age or tenure in the organization may lead to disagreement about the nature of the relationship. This information should be considered in developing formal mentoring programs.

Originality/value

This research is one of only a few studies that use the mentoring dyad as the unit of analysis. Unlike others, this study focuses on how the participants view the mentoring relationship itself.

Citation

Fagenson‐Eland, E.A., Gayle Baugh, S. and Lankau, M.J. (2005), "Seeing eye to eye: A dyadic investigation of the effect of relational demography on perceptions of mentoring activities", Career Development International, Vol. 10 No. 6/7, pp. 460-477. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620430510620557