Forget a Mentor, Find a Sponsor: The New Way to Fast-Track Your Career

By: Sylvia Ann Hewlett

Published September 10th 2013 by Harvard Business Review Press (first published January 1st 2013)

Category: Business

Pages: 256 pages

ISBN: 9781422187166

Description:
WhoÕs pulling for you? WhoÕs got your back? WhoÕs putting your hat in the ring? Odds are this person is not a mentor but a sponsor. Mentors can build your self-esteem and provide a sounding boardÑbut theyÕre not your ticket to the top.

If youÕre interested in fast-tracking your career, what you need is a sponsorÑa senior-level champion who believes in your potential and is willing to advocate for you as you pursue that next raise or promotion.

In this powerful yet practical book, economist and thought leader Sylvia Ann HewlettÑauthor of ten critically acclaimed books, including the groundbreaking Off-Ramps and On-RampsÑshows why sponsors are your proven link to success. Mixing solid data with vivid real-life narratives, Hewlett reveals the Òtwo-way streetÓ that makes sponsorship such a strong and mutually beneficial alliance. The seven-step map at the heart of this book allows you to chart your course toward your greatest goals.

Whether youÕre looking to lead a company or drive a community campaign, Forget a Mentor, Find a Sponsor will help you forge the relationships that truly have the power to deliver you to your destination.