The Importance of Mentoring in the Development and Succession of Millennial Leaders

Abstract

This chapter demonstrates that mentoring is an essential part of leadership development and succession planning when it comes to millennial leaders, because mentoring not only develops crucial skills and leadership capacity but also improves the organizational commitment and retention of millennials. The chapter begins by providing a survey of existing research into mentoring and leadership development, particularly through a transformational development lens, and outlining the findings pertaining to millennial retention and improved organizational commitment through mentoring. Next, it explores issues relevant to mentoring program development, such as millennial expectations of mentor qualities, the need to address diversity through mentoring, and the evolution of mentoring formats. Finally, the chapter provides recommendations for developing an optimal mentorship program and outlines possible directions for future research.