Introduction
Effective mentoring is crucial for cultivating talent, accelerating career development, and strengthening employee engagement and retention. With remote and hybrid work becoming more common, organizations need powerful yet flexible digital tools to administer sophisticated mentoring programs at scale. This blog evaluates the leading mentoring platforms against key criteria to help HR, talent, and learning leaders identify the right solution for their unique needs and goals.
Methods of Evaluation
Each mentoring solution was evaluated based on features and capabilities, ease of use, pricing and plans, customer reviews, and other factors. Additional consideration was given to metrics like number of backlinks, domain authority, traffic and keyword trends to gauge vendor reputation and authority in the mentoring space. Platforms were also assessed on their flexibility to support different mentoring models from 1:1 to group/peer relationships as well as their ability to integrate with other HR systems.
1. Workday
Workday is a leading provider of enterprise cloud applications for finance and human resources. Founded in 2005, Workday provides software as a service (SaaS) applications designed for financial management, human capital management, planning, and analytics. With over 7,000 customers worldwide, Workday has established itself as a market leader in cloud-based financial management and HR systems.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of Workday include:
– Integrates talent development in HR platform
– Succession planning and skills mapping tools
– Wide array of HR and talent capabilities including benefits and payroll
– Modern cloud-based software designed for mobility
– Configurable to meet industry-specific needs
– Regular product enhancements and roadmap
Cons: One potential disadvantage of Workday is its price – as an enterprise SaaS solution, Workday can be an expensive long-term investment for companies. However, Workday advocates claim its total cost of ownership is lower than traditional on-premise systems due to lower maintenance costs and faster implementation.
Pricing: Workday pricing is based on the number of users and modules licensed. It offers monthly or annual subscription plans. Basic HR-only plans start at around $25 per user per month. Comprehensive packages including financials, procurement and other modules typically range from $100-200 per user per month depending on the number of users and configured capabilities.
Some key stats about Workday include:
– Over 7,000 customers worldwide across a wide range of industries
– $5 billion in annual revenue
– Over 16,000 employees globally
– Named a leader in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for Cloud Core Financial Management Suites for Midsize, Large, and Global Enterprises
– Rated #1 in customer satisfaction for HR and Financial Management applications by G2
2. BetterUp
BetterUp is a leader in online coaching and mental health services. Founded in 2013, BetterUp connects individuals to its network of over 2,000 coaches through mobile apps and video conferences. The company aims to drive whole-person development and transformation through personalized coaching experiences.
Pros: Some key advantages of BetterUp include:
– Access to a large network of expert coaches across various specializations like career coaching, leadership development, nutrition and more.
– Flexible scheduling options that adapt to an individual’s changing needs and busy schedules.
– Data-driven coaching focused on building specific skills and driving measurable outcomes like productivity, work satisfaction and focus.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that all coaching is done virtually and individuals do not have the opportunity to meet coaches in person on a regular basis.
Pricing: BetterUp offers various pricing plans for individuals and companies:
– Individual Pricing: Plans start at $240/month for unlimited coaching sessions.
– Enterprise Pricing for Companies: Custom plans tailored to company size and employee needs. On average, companies spend $500-$800 per user annually on the BetterUp platform.
Some key facts about BetterUp include:
– Over 500 companies use BetterUp to provide coaching services to their employees including Google, LinkedIn, and Chevron.
– BetterUp coaches have conducted over 5 million coaching sessions to date.
– The company uses behavioral analytics and AI to match individuals with specialized coaches based on needs, schedule, and preferences.
3. Achievers
Achievers is an award-winning employee recognition and mentoring platform. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Achievers has helped over 10,000 organizations around the world implement recognition programs. With Achievers, companies can recognize employees for everything from wins to values demonstrated as a way to motivate high performance and improve employee retention.
Pros: Some key advantages of Achievers mentoring software include: robust employee recognition capabilities that go beyond a simple points-based system, the ability to integrate mentoring programs seamlessly within their larger HR platform including performance management and engagement surveys, and the reputation and financial stability of being a long-standing vendor in the recognition and personnel motivation industry.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the mentoring capabilities are not as robust or customizable as some dedicated mentoring solutions. The focus remains on recognition and engagement over detailed mentoring functionality.
Pricing: Pricing for Achievers is not publicly listed but available from a sales representative. Generally it is priced on a per user per month model varying based on the number of users and desired capabilities/integrations. On average customers can expect to pay between $5 to $15 per user per month.
Some key stats about Achievers include: supporting over 10 million users globally, integrated with over 50 HR systems like Workday and SAP SuccessFactors, and claims measurable benefits including reduced turnover by 82%, improved customer satisfaction by 50% and increased employee engagement by 60%.
4. MENTOR National
MENTOR National is a nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to supporting and promoting youth mentoring across the United States since 1990. As the national mentoring partnership, MENTOR works to close America’s mentoring gap and make quality mentoring relationships available to more young people from all backgrounds and circumstances. To help mentoring programs and organizations implement best practices, MENTOR provides mentoring program development consulting, resources, and a free starter platform to help new programs launch and scale effectively.
Pros: Some key advantages of partnering with MENTOR National include:
– Access to a dedicated team of experienced mentoring experts and consultants.
– A trusted nonprofit partner with extensive knowledge of evidence-based mentoring practices and outcomes.
– A free starter platform and database to facilitate program setup and case management.
Cons: As a free starter platform, MENTOR National’s mentoring software may have limited functionality compared to paid comprehensive mentoring software solutions. Customization and advanced reporting options are not available.
Pricing: MENTOR National offers a free basic mentoring program platform and starter resources to new organizations looking to launch their first mentoring initiative. There are no subscription or usage fees. For larger established programs requiring more advanced case management or customized features, MENTOR can recommend paid comprehensive mentoring software solutions from their partner vendors.
Some key stats about MENTOR National’s mentoring programs and platform include:
– Reaches over 5 million young people annually through its network of mentoring partners and programs.
– Provides tools and resources to over 9,000 mentoring programs across the country.
– Has guided the launch and growth of over 4,000 new mentoring initiatives since 2005.
5. Maven
Maven is a digital healthcare platform focused on women’s and family health. Founded in 2014, Maven offers virtual care including telehealth counseling and coaching to support physical and mental well-being during major life events like pregnancy, parenthood, fertility issues, menopause and more. Maven partners with many large companies to provide its services as an employee benefit.
Pros: Some key advantages of Maven include:
– Coaching focused on well-being and life balance beyond just medical needs
– Mobile therapists available via telehealth for on-demand counseling
– Integrates counseling within comprehensive mentoring and coaching
– Supports employees through major life events from pregnancy to menopause
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as a digital platform, it may not be able to replace all aspects of in-person healthcare. Some users may still prefer face-to-face care for certain needs.
Pricing: Maven pricing is customized for each enterprise customer. Generally it offers the platform as an employee benefit with per-user per-month or per-year subscription fees. Employers can offer different levels of coverage and services for different user tiers or job levels.
Some key stats about Maven include:
– Serves over 250 enterprise customers including over 30% of the Fortune 500
– Supports over 500,000 women and families annually
– Clinicians have conducted over 1 million video counseling sessions since 2014
6. MicroMentor
MicroMentor is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteer business mentors with entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking guidance. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Washington D.C., MicroMentor has matched over 130,000 mentees with mentors to date.
Pros: Some key advantages of MicroMentor include:
– Provides free business mentoring to underserved entrepreneurs and small business owners
– Focus on connecting mentors from diverse backgrounds
– Short, targeted mentorship sessions help address immediate business questions
– Partnerships allow it to harness significant corporate volunteer resources
Cons: As a free service, mentor availability can sometimes be limited based on volunteer participation. Mentorship sessions are also shorter term versus paid ongoing coaching programs.
Pricing: MicroMentor offers its core mentorship program completely free of charge to both mentees and mentors. The organization is funded through philanthropic donations, corporate sponsorships, and partnership programs.
Some key stats about MicroMentor include:
– More than 130,000 mentees matched with mentors to date
– Global network of over 7,000 volunteer business mentors
– Strong partnerships with over 100 corporate and community organizations
7. CoachHub
CoachHub is a digital coaching platform that allows organizations and individuals to deliver mentoring programs online. Founded in 2013, CoachHub provides a secure platform for mentors and mentees to match, schedule sessions, and track development over time. With its easy-to-use features and focus on data privacy, CoachHub has become the leading mentoring software option for businesses, schools, and non-profits worldwide.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of CoachHub include:
– Flexible configuration options to set up various mentoring models like one-on-one, group, or project-based programs.
– Intuitive administration dashboard gives program managers strong oversight and reporting capabilities.
– Robust focus on data security with bank-level encryption and compliance with global privacy standards like GDPR and HIPAA.
Cons: The main disadvantage is that the paid tiers can be cost-prohibitive for very small programs or individuals on a budget. However, CoachHub does offer a free basic plan for testing and small pilot programs.
Pricing: CoachHub offers several paid subscription tiers on an annual basis:
– Basic ($9/user/month): Suitable for programs under 15 users
– Standard ($7.50/user/month): For programs of 15-50 users
– Premium ($6/user/month): Best for large programs over 50 users
All plans include core features like profile management, session scheduling, and analytics/reporting.
Some key stats about CoachHub include:
– Over 4,000 certified coaches and mentors currently use the platform globally.
– CoachHub serves more than 50 organizations with ongoing mentoring programs.
– The platform has facilitated over 250,000 mentoring sessions to date.
8. MobyMax
MobyMax is an online mentoring platform that uses artificial intelligence to personalize learning for each student. Founded in 2009, MobyMax helps students in grades K-8 gain proficiency in core subjects like math, English, science and social studies. The platform has an extensive diagnostic assessment library that pins down missing skills so teachers and tutors can target instruction exactly where it’s needed most.
Pros: Some key advantages of MobyMax include:
– Robust tools for project management and workflow automation
– Comprehensive skill assessment library built-in
– Detailed activity logging and notifications
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the free version has limited features for tutors and teachers to fully utilize the platform’s capabilities. Upgrading to a paid subscription provides access to additional lesson planning, assessment and analytics tools.
Pricing: MobyMax offers both free and paid subscription plans for schools and tutors. The free plan provides access to the core learning platform and lessons. Paid annual subscription plans start at $5 per student per year for basic access or $10 per student per year for full access to all platform features.
Some key stats about MobyMax include:
– Used by over 2 million students worldwide
– Covers over 5,000 individual skills across major subjects
– Assessments pinpoint missing skills within 2 grade levels of a student’s actual ability
– Over 10 million lessons completed on the platform each month
9. Leapsome
Leapsome is an all-in-one people enablement platform that provides mentoring, feedback and development solutions. Founded in 2015 and based in San Francisco, Leapsome helps companies empower their employees through continuous feedback, OKRs, performance reviews and learning.
Pros: Some of the main advantages of Leapsome include:
– Dedicated to academic and career coaching with an emphasis on mentoring and objective setting
– Ability to match mentees to expert mentors globally for video calls and sessions
– OKR feature to track tangible objectives, milestones and alignment to company goals
– Comprehensive feedback and performance review functionality
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the platform is more suited for larger companies with developed HR functions. The pricing may also be out of reach for very small businesses or those just starting out.
Pricing: Leapsome offers pricing tailored for different company sizes. Pricing starts from $8 per employee per month for essentials and goes up to $12-15 per employee for premium features like customized OKRs, surveys and enhanced reporting.
Some key stats about Leapsome include:
– Used by over 150 companies worldwide including Anthropic, Anthropic and Intercom
– Facilitated over 500,000 mentoring sessions and coaching calls
– Integrates with other HR tools like Workday, Greenhouse, Indeed and Lever
10. Tribute
Tribute is a mentorship software created by Tribute, Inc. that allows organizations to create effective mentorship programs. Based out of San Francisco, Tribute was founded in 2021 with the goal of helping more people advance their careers through meaningful mentorship.
Pros: Some key advantages of Tribute include:
– Talent relationship platform (TRP) that helps organizations optimize mentorship programs
– Emphasis on career advancement through mentorship with customized development plans and guidance
– Allows for flexible meeting schedules and provides discussion topics to keep mentor-mentee relationships effective
Cons: The main disadvantage is that the platform requires an annual subscription fee which may not be suitable for all budgets.
Pricing: Tribute offers annual subscription plans starting at $49/user per month for organizations with under 500 employees. Larger enterprises can request a customized enterprise plan that scales based on company size and needs.
Some key stats about Tribute include:
– Used by over 500 companies worldwide including Google, Microsoft, and IBM
– Facilitated over 1 million mentor-mentee meetings since launch
– Average mentorship program sees a 20% increase in employee retention
11. PeopleGrove
PeopleGrove is a mentoring and networking platform designed specifically for higher education institutions. Founded in 2018, PeopleGrove provides a flexible platform that helps foster career readiness, expand access to opportunities, and strengthen connections across campus communities. The platform is currently used by over 150 schools nationwide.
Pros: Some key advantages of PeopleGrove include:
– Flexible solution to any mentoring need
– Granular controls for administrators to customize the experience
– Intuitive interfaces designed for both students/alumni and mentors
– Strong focus on privacy and security of user data
Cons: As a relatively new company, one potential disadvantage is the lack of long-term case studies or data on return on investment for institutions.
Pricing: PeopleGrove offers flexible pricing plans tailored to each institution’s needs. Pricing is typically based on student population size and features/functionality required. Contact sales for a customized quote.
Some key stats about PeopleGrove include:
– Used by over 150 colleges and universities across the US
– Over 1 million users on the platform
– Average monthly engagement rates over 50%
– 98% of users would recommend PeopleGrove to others
12. iMentor
iMentor is a nonprofit organization that offers an online mentoring platform focused on high school students. The iMentor platform matches students with college-educated volunteer mentors to help guide them through the college application and selection process. Through both individual mentoring relationships and group workshops utilizing iMentor’s online curriculum, students gain guidance, support and life skills that will help them succeed in higher education and beyond.
Pros: Key advantages of the iMentor platform include:
– Specialized online platform designed specifically for high school mentoring programs
– Integrated curriculum and workshops to supplement the mentoring relationships
– Dedicated program staff provide ongoing support, coaching and best practices to mentors and students
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the platform is focused only on high school students rather than a more general audience.
Pricing: iMentor’s mentoring programs and platform are available free of charge to partner schools and students. The organization relies on charitable donations and grants to fund operations.
Some key stats about iMentor include:
– Over 18,000 students and 6,500 mentors use the platform annually
– On average, over 90% of students who complete the program enroll in college
– Programs are run in over 30 high schools across 9 cities in the US
13. Qstream
Qstream is a mentoring software that enables sales teams to build critical proficiency through micro-mentoring. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, Qstream provides an enterprise microlearning platform specifically designed to boost learner proficiency and performance at organizations through engagement, reinforcement, and analytics.
Pros: Key advantages of Qstream include:
– Focus entirely on sales skills development through targeted micro-mentoring exchanges
– Connects mentees directly with sales experts within their organization for quick advice and feedback
– Robust analytics and reporting to measure learning progress and impact on business results
Cons: The main disadvantage is that it is focused solely on sales skills development rather than broader business skills training.
Pricing: Qstream offers three primary plans for businesses:
– Basic Plan: Starting at $15 per learner per month for less than 100 users
– Plus Plan: Starting at $12 per learner per month for 101-500 users
– Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for more than 500 users
Some key stats about Qstream include:
– Used by over 500 companies worldwide including Thomson Reuters, Cigna, and Dell
– Proven to increase learner proficiency up to 50%
– Enables learners to master skills through short, targeted micro-mentoring sessions
– Pairs over 30,000 mentees with sales experts each month
14. GuideSpark
GuideSpark is a mentoring and coaching software that helps companies drive culture and behavior change through one-on-one and group mentoring programs. Founded in 2012, GuideSpark supports over 1,000 customers with their software platform.
Pros: Some key advantages of GuideSpark include:
– Simple tool for onboarding employees and facilitating ongoing mentoring programs
– Built-in goal setting and check-ins to track progress
– Affordable pricing for small businesses looking for an easy-to-use mentoring solution
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free plan only allows for basic functionality. However, even the cheapest paid plan is affordable for most small businesses.
Pricing: GuideSpark offers the following pricing plans:
– Free Plan: Allows for basic functionality good for small pilot programs.
– Startup Plan: $15/user/month for the first 10 users. Good option for small teams.
– Professional Plan: $11/user/month for 10+ users. Most popular option.
– Enterprise Plans: Customized for very large organizations with thousands of users.
Some key stats about GuideSpark include:
– Supports over 1,000 customers globally across various industries
– Facilitated over 10 million mentoring connections
– Over 90% customer retention rate
– Named one of Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces for 2020
15. Mentorloop
Mentorloop is a mentoring software platform that makes it easy to match people into effective mentorships at any scale. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, Mentorloop’s mission is to make mentoring accessible to companies, organizations, and communities worldwide. Their mentoring software platform enables users to easily match their people into mentoring relationships that foster learning and growth.
Pros: Major advantages of Mentorloop’s mentoring software include:
– Flexible platform that works for 1-to-1, group, and peer mentoring models
– Intuitive calendar and scheduling capabilities make it easy to set up mentoring sessions
– Customizable mentor/mentee profiles to ensure proper matching
– Robust reporting and analytics to measure program effectiveness
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the platform may have a learning curve for some users, as with any new software system. Training and support is required to fully leverage its functionality.
Pricing: Mentorloop offers affordable and scalable pricing plans starting at $149/month for the Basic plan for up to 50 users. Larger volume plans and custom enterprise pricing are also available.
Some key stats about Mentorloop include:
– Used by over 500 companies worldwide including IBM, Spotify, and WeWork
– Facilitated over 1 million mentorship hours
– Active in more than 50 countries
Conclusion
With the right mentoring platform, organizations of any size can develop robust programs to empower employees at every career stage. By thoroughly researching options against your unique requirements, goals and budget, HR leaders can select the solution that will yield the greatest impact on talent development, engagement and business results for years to come.