Mentor vs Preceptor

The terms mentor and preceptor are often used interchangeably. However, these two very important roles have defining features that make them quite different.

Mentor

The relationship between a mentor and mentee is a naturally formed, one-on-one, mutual, committed, nonsexual relationship between a junior and senior person designed to promote personal and professional development beyond any particular curricular or institutional goals. This relationship is one of mutual benefit. Mentors provide direction, foster self-confidence, and instill the values mentees need to develop professionally. Serving as a mentor can provide a sense of pride and gratification.

Mentoring relationships tend to be long-term commitments and persist over many years. The mentor–mentee relationship should evolve over time to meet the mentee’s changing needs.

Preceptor

Preceptor–student relationship is prearranged, and neither the student nor the preceptor chooses the other. In this arrangement, the commitment to each other is short-term, with most rotations lasting under 10 weeks. Once students complete the rotation, their interaction with the preceptor likely ceases unless the interaction is continued with subsequent rotations. Similar to mentors and mentees, preceptors and students receive mutual benefits: Students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for them to become an athletic trainer, and preceptors are able to do what they enjoy, teach.

A preceptor's goal is to provide guidance and instruction to new athletic training students. The preceptor plays an essential role in the clinical training of the students, and their guidance helps them develop essential skills and knowledge.

What's the Difference?

Mentors are typically very knowledgeable and established in their field, which enables them to provide the expertise necessary to fulfill the mentee’s needs. On the contrary, preceptors may not have as many years of experience, and that is okay. Some of the best preceptors are young faculty members just starting their careers and still understand the fine details of competencies.

Types of Mentoring Processes and Strategies

Several different types of mentoring processes and strategies can be used to support the development of new nurses. Some common approaches include:

Formal mentoring – Formal mentoring relationships are typically initiated by the athletic training program and involve a designated mentor assigned to provide support and guidance to a mentee.

Informal mentoring – Informal mentoring relationships are typically established between two athletic trainers who share a common interest or goal. These relationships are less structured and often develop organically over time. Often informal mentoring will be supporting new athletic trainers in their roles.

Peer mentoring – Peer mentoring is a type of mentoring relationship in which two athletic trainers of similar experience levels provide support and guidance to each other.

Group mentoring – Group mentoring is mentoring in which a group of athletic trainers works together to support and guide each other. This type of mentoring can be especially beneficial for new nurses adjusting to the role.

Mentoring programs – Mentoring programs are typically established by healthcare organizations to support and guide new athletic trainers. These programs often pair new athletic trainers with experienced mentors who can guide and support them throughout the transition into the role.

What are the Advantages of Being an Athletic Training Mentor?

An athletic training mentor can benefit both the new athletic trainer and the athletic training profession as a whole. The new athletic trainer gains a wealth of knowledge and experience from the mentor, while the athletic training profession benefits from having a more well-rounded group of athletic trainers.

Mentors provide guidance, support, and advice to their mentees based on their experiences and expertise. They can help new athletic trainers learn how to be successful in their roles and help them navigate through challenges they may encounter during their careers.

Mentors can also act as role models, demonstrating professional behaviors and standards contributing to the high-quality care athletic trainers provide.

What are the Advantages of Being an Athletic Training Preceptor?

There are many benefits to being an athletic training preceptor! As a preceptor, you have the opportunity to help shape the future of athletic training by molding and mentoring new athletic training. You also have the chance to share your knowledge and expertise with others and help them grow in their career.

Additionally, being a preceptor can benefit your career growth, as it allows you to develop leadership skills and gain experience in managing and leading a team.

Many personal rewards come with being an athletic training preceptor, such as the satisfaction of knowing you are making a difference in the lives of others.

Wensel, TM. Mentor or preceptor: What is the difference? American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy. 2006(63:7), 1597. https://doi.org/10.2146/ajhp060121

Preceptorship and Mentorship in Nursing (thenerdynurse.com)

Shelby 8/2024