The Effect of Group Mentoring on Career Outcomes

Abstract

The importance of mentoring as a component of career development has been well supported empirically. Yet mentors may not be a viable option for individuals who would like to progress on a management track but have limited opportunities to do so. This study proposed that professional associations may function as a source of mentoring for its members. The influence of affiliation with a professional organization on career outcomes was tested. Four components of group mentoring were identified through factor analysis: psychosocial support, inclusion, networking, and role modeling. Inclusion predicted higher job attainment, whereas role modeling made a significant contribution to salary. This study has practical implications for management development.