Does your company have a formal process in place for mentoring employees?

I worked for a very large company that had a program called "The MDP Program." For two years, these individuals rotated from area to area. It was a very smart program as when these individuals were finished, they were well rounded in the activities of the company.

But, these formal programs are very expensive. Benefits are not realized immediatley and you risk training your competitors' employees. I know they offer tremendous value, but it must be implemented in conjunction with a retention program or employment agreement. If not, you risk watching your investment walk out the door.