RESEARCH & WHITE PAPERS
The purpose of these research and white papers is not only to share knowledge but also to encourage reflection and dialogue. Effective mentoring programmes rarely emerge from following a standard template. They are shaped by organisational context, participant needs and clear strategic objectives. These papers explore questions, challenges and opportunities that organisations often encounter when designing, implementing and developing mentoring initiatives. By sharing lessons learned, practical observations and emerging perspectives, they aim to support more thoughtful and effective mentoring practice.
The topics reflect many of the issues organisations face when using mentoring to support leadership development, talent development, diversity initiatives, knowledge sharing and organisational learning. Some papers explore specific mentoring approaches and programme design considerations, while others examine broader trends and developments that influence how mentoring is practised today.
The white papers are intended for HR professionals, learning and development specialists, programme managers, leaders and anyone with an interest in creating high-quality mentoring experiences. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, they provide perspectives, ideas and practical insights that can help organisations make informed decisions and adapt mentoring to their own culture, objectives and participants. Together, the publications represent an ongoing commitment to research, learning and continuous development within the mentoring field. They reflect both the evolving nature of mentoring and the belief that effective mentoring is built on curiosity, reflection and a willingness to learn from both research and practice.
RESEARCH
7 leadership competencies every leader should master
The paper offers an HR perspective on the seven leadership competencies that matter most, showing how sustainable leadership development is built through everyday reflection and learning. It highlights mentoring as the connecting thread that embeds learning, enhances decision-making, and delivers measurable impact across the organization.
WHITE PAPER
Generational Mentoring: Unleashing the Power of Generational Diversity
This white paper by Kirsten M. Poulsen and David Ringwood introduces Generational Mentoring—a new approach that fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and engagement across age groups. It challenges common myths about generational differences and shows how multi-generational teams thrive when communication styles are bridged through mentoring.
RESEARCH
Implementing Successful Mentoring Programmes: Career Definition vs. Mentoring Approach
This paper explores how mentoring programmes can align individual and organisational goals in today’s evolving career landscape. It highlights the shift from linear careers to self-directed growth and contrasts traditional mentoring with the modern, collaborative “Learning Alliance” approach.
WHITE PAPER
Danfoss Global Mentoring Program: Being ready for the new tomorrow
This white paper explores how Danfoss A/S has, since 2016, built a global mentoring programme that strengthens leadership development, visibility, and learning culture. It outlines the programme’s design, implementation, and impact on the company’s leadership pipeline.
WHITE PAPER
Critical Success Factors for Designing Mentoring Programmes
This white paper outlines how to design a successful mentoring programme that meets expectations from management, stakeholders, and participants. It presents key success factors—such as clear purpose, roles, communication, preparation, and support—and highlights the risks of overlooking them.
WHITE PAPER
From Talent to Value - the Employee Journey
This white paper shows how mentoring, used strategically, helps organisations attract and retain talent, accelerate leadership development, and strengthen succession pipelines. It also illustrates how mentoring adds value throughout the employee journey.
WHITE PAPER
Maximising Participation in Student Mentoring Programmes
This white paper shares key findings from a survey of student mentoring programmes in Scandinavia, offering insights to better engage mentors and mentees and providing programme managers with tools and best practices to enhance programme success.
