In Chapter 4 of "The Essential Guide to Group Communication", the authors talk about the importance of mentors in groups. Mentors are usually older and more experienced than other members, and can offer knowledge and wisdom that no one else in the group or team can offer. Proteges benefit from that knowledge and are able to grow, develop, and/or learn at a faster pace. The relationship between those two types of group members relies on each member understanding his or her role in the group. The mentor must be willing to teach, while the protege must be willing to learn. Both sides must make the effort for each other in order to accomplish their goal.
I found this information useful because all of us are mentors and proteges depending on the situation. When it comes to trying to learn something, I have to be more open-minded. Meanwhile, I have to be more patient whenever I teach something to someone. Also, the four stages in a mentoring relationship (initiation, cultivation, separation, and redefinition) showed me that being a mentor is not an overnight thing.
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