Nobody can get promoted without a sponsor
Sponsors change your career.
They help you get ahead.
They help you earn more money (~11% more).
Who are your sponsors?
How many sponsors do you have?
What happens if your sponsors leave the team or the company?
Who can be the candidates to become your sponsors?
These are some of the questions I ask people during my speaking/coaching sessions.
The truth is, we have to take care of our own careers.
We have to find our sponsors.
We have to get to know them, but more importantly, have them know us and our characters and competencies.
I have seen so many high-performing professionals waiting passively for others to recognize their abilities, rather than proactively sharing what they do.
According to Carla Harris , there are 3 criteria someone must meet to be your sponsor.
This person has to have the power to influence the decision.
This person has to know you and your work.
This person has to be willing to speak for you, especially when you are not in the room.
Be intentional and strategic about finding those candidates.
Make an introduction and start to build a meaningful relationship.
Make them proud of what you do and excited to speak on your behalf.