Informal mentoring develops in a one-on-one relationship, where one person approaches another and introduces the idea of forming a mentoring relationship. The relationship develops without the aid of a program or without anyone overseeing the time spent or progress made.
Programs that exist for the purpose of creating mentoring relationships encourage formal mentoring. Mentors and proteges are grouped by a third party for a specific purpose. Formal mentoring programs are often hampered by lack of funds and inability to adequately oversee the administration of the program over time.
Whether informal or formal, traditional mentoring takes the form of a one-on-one, long-term relationship. Many times this type of mentoring is used in educational settings and pairs adults with students who need extra help in one or more subjects in school. Mentors not only assist students with schoolwork, but also over time can provide a stable, encouraging relationship that students can depend on.
Some mentor-protege relationships don't need to be a long-term commitment. Especially helpful in business settings, special project mentoring is best for a specific purpose. For example, an experienced project manager takes a younger manager with less experience under her wing and guides her throughout the project, offering advice and sharing experiences.