Myth
The competition for sponsors is fierce—standing out and getting one is too difficult.
Truth
I can attract and build important power alliances.
We all know that being successful in business requires building strong relationships. But do we take enough time to do it? With constant deadlines to adhere to, we may rationalize that sitting at our desks uninterrupted and using the phone and internet to connect with people is enough.
Of course excelling at our day-to-day tasks is important, and you may be recognized for the quality of your work, but will that give you access to higher-ups who can put your name in the ring when a job opens up? Possibly, but don’t assume that will happen. You must take every opportunity there is to meet the power players. Get out of your familiar surroundings, and seek out opportunities to mix with those calling the shots.
Create strategic alliances with sponsors—whether you like them or not—and show them your loyalty as well as your ability to produce results. Take a look at the scenarios below. Would you sabotage yourself by holding back, or take a leap and forge a new connection?
Challenge
You are assigned to a project with a leader whom you’ve identified as a potential sponsor.
Hold yourself back
You keep a low profile as you do the work. You don’t want to look like you’re showing off or sucking up.
Succeed with sponsors
You are instrumental to the project’s success, and you make it your business to touch base with the leader on several occasions.
Challenge
You are at a company event and see a power player you would like to meet.
Hold yourself back
You want to approach him, but too many people are vying for his attention. You don’t want to be a bother, and you never get your chance.
Succeed with sponsors
You’ve done your homework and know where he is taking the company. You’ve thought about how you can help him get it there. Even though he’s surrounded by a group, you don’t leave until you make initial contact.
Challenge
Your sponsor says she’s going to suggest you for a high level job.
Hold yourself back
You are hesitant because you don’t think you’re ready for that level of responsibility. You talk yourself out of the opportunity and waste her time.
Succeed with sponsors
You say yes because you trust her judgment. You assess your strengths relative to the job and ask for feedback for dealing with areas where you are less experienced.
Adapted from The Confidence Myth: Why Women Undervalue Their Skills, and How to Get Over It, by Helene Lerner, Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2015
Deliver good work consistently, and let others know what you are doing. Word spreads quickly, and you may get on the radar of a potential sponsor.
Ask yourself what you can uniquely contribute to your organization. Identify a few senior people who can help you accomplish this objective, and be clear on ways you can advance their agenda and yours.
Identify someone as a potential sponsor, and then seek out a way to interact with her informally. Slip into the conversation your desire to support her initiatives.
Build relationships with more than one person. Strong alliances grow and change. People retire or take on assignments that can make it difficult to stay in touch.
