Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary tells us that a mentor is "a trusted counselor or guide," a "tutor or coach." The word comes down to us from the famous Greek story of Odysseus and his son Telemachus, whose education Odysseus entrusted to his friend Mentor. It's a classic!

And so are the wise counselors who've shared some ideas with us here at Hard@Work as Visiting Mentors. We'll be inviting other experts on the world of work to discuss their insights in the weeks ahead -- and if there is someone you think we ought to consider, please let us know.

In the meantime, give an ear to these VMs (nope, no Greek needed):

• David Brandt, author of Is That ALL There Is? Balancing Expectation and Disappointment in Your Life, makes sense of the job-related disappointments that so many of us seem to encounter -- and suggests some ways to deal with them.
• Jeffrey Gitomer, author of Customer Satisfaction Is Worthless, Customer Loyalty Is Priceless, explains why customer service seems to be declining, how it can be improved, and what to do about customers who just can't be pleased.
• Arlene Hirsch, author of Love Your Work and Success Will Follow, identifies five kinds of dream jobs and explains how to bridge the gap between work fantasy and reality.
• Diane Moore, editor of The Office Professional and author of "Careerabilities: Skills You Need to Succeed in the 21st Century," discusses how to cope with organizational change.
• Gyani Richards, corporate consultant and published expert on stress management, describes three ways busy Hard@Workers can "relax on the run."
• David A. Shapiro, co-author with David J. Leider of Repacking Your Bags, analyzes the situation described by a Hard@Worker who feels trapped in the wrong job -- and identifies some options.
• Patricia Smith, author of Each of Us: How Every Woman Can Earn More Money in Corporate America, identifies some of the barriers to better pay that women face, and what women can do about them.
• Matt Weinstein, author of Managing to Have Fun, comments on the importance of linking work and fun, and how management practices and organizational culture affect the enjoyment that employees derive from their jobs.