There's a difference between mentoring which is usually or always for free and coaching that you get paid for. If you want to be paid for your time and expertise, you can sell your coaching/tutoring services. If they accept, then it's a win win for the both of you.<p>In my experience, most people that have asked me for my help have not been too serious. If you went out of your way and it didn't work out, that's not a good sign. It's good to do an easy test or just say no.