An evaluation of mentoring for SME retailers

The aim of this research is to assess the role of mentoring as an approach to training and development for small- to medium-sized enterprise (SME) retailers. Mentoring requires the teaming of a knowledgeable person with a learner, to enable a transfer of information, skills and expertise. Importantly it allows greater flexibility in the timing and location of learning. The research is being undertaken in the London Borough of Merton through an 18-month project. This study forms an interim assessment and analysis of 40 retailers’ responses to the mentoring process, the types of learning needs encountered, the implementation of mentoring and their experiences and learning outcomes. It concludes by assessing the effectiveness of the initial outcomes of the project against its objectives and evaluating emerging themes in SME retail management.

The research was undertaken in 2002-3. It involved fieldwork with forty small businesses of which thirty were recorded, identifying their needs and analysing the success of the mentoring provision. Mentoring had not previously been used with this type of organisation and rarely used outside large organisations, so the research provided unique findings into the opportunities to apply this form of guidance. It also made important distinctions between coaching, training and consultancy for small businesses.