What are the benefits and risks of having mentors and sponsors in executive career transitions?

1 Mentors vs Sponsors

Mentors are experienced professionals who can offer you advice, feedback, and guidance on your career development. They can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, goals, and challenges, and share their insights and perspectives on your industry, role, and organization. Mentors are usually not in a position to directly influence your career advancement, but they can help you grow your skills, knowledge, and confidence. Sponsors are influential leaders who can advocate for you, endorse you, and connect you with opportunities within your organization or network. They can help you gain visibility, recognition, and access to key decision-makers, projects, and promotions. Sponsors are usually senior to you and have a stake in your success, but they may not offer you much personal or professional support.

3 Risks of Mentors and Sponsors

When transitioning to an executive career, mentors and sponsors can be beneficial allies. However, there are certain risks and challenges associated with them. Finding the right mentors and sponsors who share your vision and interests is essential, as is managing expectations, boundaries, and communication. Additionally, it is important to consider the benefits and costs of having multiple mentors and sponsors, while avoiding conflicts of interest. Furthermore, you should maintain your autonomy and integrity while handling feedback or criticism from your mentors and sponsors. By doing so, you can learn from their perspectives and experiences.

4 How to Find Mentors and Sponsors

Finding mentors and sponsors can be difficult, particularly if you are new to an organization, industry, or role. To locate them, start by assessing your needs, goals, and gaps. Then research potential mentors and sponsors who have the relevant expertise, experience, and influence in your field or organization. When you reach out to them, craft a clear, concise, and convincing message that outlines who you are, what you are seeking, and why you are interested in them. Establish rapport and trust by showing genuine interest, curiosity, and appreciation. Additionally, ask for specific advice, feedback, or referrals from them. Don't forget to thank them for their help and share the results of their advice with them.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?