Mentoring in Family Firms: A Reflective Analysis of Senior Executives' Perceptions

Abstract

This paper reflectively analyzes 76 family business senior executives' perceptions of their personal experiences of being mentored. Although mentoring in family firms is a common recommendation, there is little empirical research supporting its use or efficacy. The findings from this research reveal that those who were mentored believe it is a vital tool for success. The data indicate a strong belief that the selection of the mentoring technique—formal or informal, performed by a family or nonfamily member—should depend on the parties involved and the situation. The analysis provides family businesses with a practical tool for the selection of appropriate mentoring methodologies. The paper also presents recommendations for future research.