“How to Get the Most Out of Your Relationship with a Career Sponsor,”

 Thu 18 July 2024

Getting the Most Out of Your Relationship with a Career Sponsor

Navigating your career advancement can be challenging, especially without support from senior leaders. Sponsorship programs can bridge this gap by formally pairing you with a sponsor who will mentor you and advocate for your growth. To make the most of your relationship with a sponsor, follow these strategies.

(1) Invest time in getting to know each other as people first. 

Start by building trust. Use initial meetings to explore each other’s career histories, values, and interests beyond work. This foundation allows for more meaningful conversations later that will unlock coaching and mentorship.

(2) Don’t assume you’re wasting their time. 

Remember, they benefit from the relationship too! If you’re worrying about a sponsor’s time, that’s a sign you’re taking your meetings with them seriously and will prepare accordingly. Keep the faith and maintain consistent communication.

(3) Maintain frequent but low-intensity touch points.

 Not every point of contact needs to be a deep conversation. Share relevant articles, brief check-in messages, and other casual communications. These small gestures keep the relationship active between meetings.

(4) Find shared experiences. 

Propose shadowing your sponsor in meetings, at events, or on projects. Shared activities build trust and provide rich material for future discussion. They also showcase your skills, growth areas, and potential.

This tip is adapted from “How to Get the Most Out of Your Relationship with a Career Sponsor,” by Rachel Simmons