How would those dead poet society (or high schoolers) know they liked poetry if Robin Williams as a teacher didn’t demand they stand on a desk? And how would Matt Damon’s Will Hunting ever believe in himself if Williams didn’t pop up again as a new character who boosted his confidence and assured him? Without mentorship, the desks lie empty and the apples, well, they’re not all that liked.

Mentors aren’t just for Williams roles in ’90s-era dad movies—they’re supposed to help push someone through a difficult situation and not just get through the other side, but grow through the experience. But there don’t seem to be enough mentors going around for the generation that needs them the most.

Just 52% of Gen Zers say they have a mentor, according to Adobe’s newly released survey of more than 1,000. But it’s not for lack of wanting: A whopping 83% of Gen Z workers reported to Adobe that they think a “workplace mentor is crucial for their career.” Without one, the most junior employees are forced to navigate an uncertain and ever-shifting professional landscape on their own.

More From Fortune

Share via
Copy link
Powered by Social Snap