Doubtful, in this day and age. But that’s the whole idea behind a new business book that’s flying off the shelves: Into the Unknown: Leadership Lessons from Lewis & Clark’s Daring Westward Expedition.

According to author Jack Uldrich, today’s businesses — and business people — could learn a thing or two from that famous duo’s skills in strategic thinking, decision-making, perseverance and problem-solving. Not to mention their ability to inspire those around them, learn from their mistakes and remain optimistic in the face of tough times and hardship.

The book also makes a strong case for mentoring, which is why we asked you, our loyal readers, this question in April, 2004 ’s issue of CareerThink:

Which historical or modern-day figure would you choose as your mentor, boss or role model — and why?

Top Mentors? Jesus and Oprah
We received a modest number of responses, but hey, we go for quality over quantity. The No. 1 choice of those of you who responded was Jesus Christ, with a little over 30 percent. Second most popular choice was Oprah Winfrey, with 14 percent. The remainder chose Maya Angelou, Mel Gibson, Steve Wynn, Brendan Manning and others.

Below are a few comments we received …

From M. Sosebee:
“I would pick Jesus Christ … because of what He was able to accomplish as a leader. He turned a group of misfits and diametrically different people into a solid team … If we as managers could harness even a tenth of that motivational strength, there’s no end to what could be accomplished.”

From Loria Holleman:
“I would choose Oprah Winfrey. She has the ability to reach people from all walks of life and to really make a difference in their lives. She is an inspiration not only to women and people of color but also to those who come from humble beginnings.”

From Julie Pribik:
“ … as a role model, mentor or boss, I would pick Jesus. In my opinion, he would be the perfect leader because of his honesty, trustworthiness, assertiveness, patience, genuine caring attitude, humility, courage, etc.”

From Stacey Davis:
“I think anyone would benefit from having Oprah Winfrey as a role model. She is proof-positive that perseverance pays off. She has always ‘shared the wealth’ and been more than generous with her success.”

From Debra Standridge:
“Einstein – brilliant, quirky and spiritual. I’ve had bosses like that, and they’re a bit of a pain. You have to constantly remind them of things, because they’re thinking so far ahead they get forgetful.”

From Todd Frideger:
“Sir Winston Churchill possessed knowledge, respect, experience, integrity, bravery, honesty, loyalty, foresight, and an insatiable desire to succeed. He recognized the big picture and relentlessly pursued it. During tough times he focused on the objective and never let up until the objective was met …”

From Jamie Brownlee:
“I would choose Mary Kay Ash because of her ability to empower those around her to be all they can be. She leads by example and follows the Golden Rule.”

From Penny M. Banks:
“I would pick Helen Keller … She didn’t let anything hold her back from learning new things and was willing to take risks. Helen pushed herself (to) overcome what was holding her back. I feel most people in the world don’t do this enough in their personal and professional lives.”

Why Have a Mentor?
Aside from the fantasy mentors of your daydreams, real-life mentors can act as your advocate, your instructor and your role model. He or she can show you the ropes, cut through corporate red tape, develop your promotability and sing your praises to those higher on the chain of command within your organization.

A mentor can also introduce you to sources it would ordinarily take you years to find and cultivate, including people within professional organizations as well as the mentor’s network of friends. A good mentor recognizes the importance of these connections and will use them to help you achieve your overall career goals.

If you’re a manager or supervisor, mentoring an employee is also a great way to groom your replacement so that you can move up the ladder in your company.

Choose Your Mentor Wisely
Choosing a mentor is a big step, because working with the wrong mentor can be a disastrous experience that can set back your career, not advance it. Give the following considerations substantial thought before approaching an individual about mentoring you:

• Experience. Choose someone with at least 7 to 10 years of experience in your field.
• Status. You want a mentor who is highly respected and regarded by others and has some pull in your organization.
• Time commitment. How much time do you expect a mentor to devote to the relationship — a weekly lunch, a daily meeting, a monthly phone call to review your goals? Be clear about your expectations going in.
• Attitude. You’re going to take instruction, advice and criticism from your mentor, so choose a personality type that meshes well with yours.
• Confidentiality. Ask around beforehand to make sure your mentor isn’t a blabber-mouth. You don’t want your weaknesses broadcast while you’re still on the learning curve.
• Willingness. A mentor should be a believer in the concept of mentoring and willing to share both time and information with you.

For mentoring to be effective, the professional relationship must be a win-win for both of you. Think about what you can do for your mentor to return the time and effort he or she is devoting to you. Research a project? Take over a task? Head up a committee for your mentor’s pet project?

Choose your mentor wisely, and the day will come when employees will look to you as a mentor.