Perceptions of mentors and protégés were examined to understand how the mentoring exchange is perceived and how perceptions of the exchange influence feelings about the relationship. In particular, we suggest that there are specific behaviors related to career and social support exhibited throughout the mentoring process. It was hypothesized that when relevant career and social support behaviors are exhibited sufficiently to meet the expectations of a partner, higher levels of relationship effectiveness, and trust for a partner are realized. Findings indicate that when protégés are open to advisement and coaching, and put forth effort in accomplishing required work or projects, a mentor’s perceptions of relationship effectiveness and trust felt for the protégé are positively influenced. When mentors engage in sufficient levels of social support behaviors to meet a protégé’s expectations, a protégé will form higher perceptions of relationship effectiveness and trust for the mentor. The findings of this study, implications for managers, and suggestions for future research are discussed in detail.
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