The more, the merrier? Multiple developmental relationships and work satisfaction

Abstract

The context of the present study is the early careers of lawyers. I examine if and how receiving “more” mentoring – in terms both of number of relationships and amount and type of assistance received – affects individuals’ satisfaction at work. Results suggest that the more developmental relationships an individual has and the more developmental assistance he or she receives, the greater will be his or her work satisfaction. Findings also suggest, however, that receiving a high amount of psychosocial assistance from just one person, who is not necessarily of higher status, is associated with high work satisfaction. Practical implications and suggestions for future research that explores the effects of multiple developmental relationships in other contexts are discussed.