Mentors are somewhat like best friends. You can call at middle of the night and be assured the call will be picked up.
Mentors are seen to be available, perceived to be approachable, someone who can be called at any time the mentee seeks help, support and advise.
From an organization perspective, mentors need not necessarily be senior managers, they can be at any rung of an organization heirarchy, they can even be outside the organization. Though, for advise on organization issues, it might be difficult to share organization specific information with an external mentor.
Are all leaders true mentors?
Not necessarily.
Traits associated with Mentors include; being approachable, qualities equivalent to a coach, who guides, coaxes, supports, repriminds, applauds, in required proportion and at the right time.
It is not necessary that every time the mentee approaches to weep on the mentor's shoulder, he or she gets to be cuddled; the mentor could well admonish and scold;
More on qualities of mentors in my coming posts.
Cheers