MARINE CORPS MENTORSHIP: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON CHANGES FROM A FORMAL TO AN INFORMAL FRAMEWORK

Many studies have found that informal mentoring programs are more effective than formal programs. Consistent with those studies, the Marine Corps replaced its formal policy with an informal mentoring program starting in 2017. The most significant changes for the Marine Corps during this transition from a formal to an informal mentoring program were the removal of assigned mentors and the prescription for mentors to focus on six functional areas that provide a comprehensive framework for leader development. These functional areas encompass the topics of fidelity (organizational core values and principles), the fighter (cumulative military skill sets), fitness (comprehensive well-being), family (social relationships), finances (fiscal planning and budget management), and the future (establishment of personal and professional goals). However, research shows that successful mentorship programs incorporate a strategic focus that organizes the goals and process to include the development of mentoring skills. This suggests that the recent changes to the Marine mentoring program may be insufficient to generate robust mentoring. This study investigated how the 2017 policy change has affected how Marines mentor and are mentored and makes recommendations for further improvement. We identified factors shown in research that contribute to successful mentoring programs, assessed the revised Marine mentor program against research findings, and identified potential improvements.Major, United States Marine CorpsMajor, United States Marine CorpsApproved for public release. distribution is unlimite