Mentor Versus Sponsor — And Why You Need Both in Your Workplace

When beginning that first, entry-level job, you’re most likely fresh out of college without a lot of “real world” experience. That said, you have a great deal to offer. A millennial perspective is a hot commodity on its own—your natural tech / social media prowess is certainly welcomed, but your fresh outlook is possibly more valuable.

While you’ve now reached the first rung of the corporate ladder—but you have no idea how to marshal that fresh perspective toward workplace opportunities. Contrary to what your mind tells you, it can’t be done on your own—you need guides—better known as a workplace mentor and sponsor.

Mentor—according to Webster’s Dictionary: someone who teaches or gives help and advice to a less experienced often younger person.

When searching for a mentor, look no further than your immediate department. A company veteran with your best interests at heart is an ideal candidate. Part of a mentor’s role is to help you become better at your job—and in order to perform that role as well as possible, your mentor should be more than familiar with all of your day-to-day activities. Another important responsibility for a mentor is to offer all types of feedback—positive or negative, but overall, constructive. Be sure to check out our guide to finding a career mentor if you’re having difficulty on your search for someone to fill the role.

Sponsor—as per an expanded definition from Webster’s Dictionary: one who assumes responsibility for some person or thing.

Should you desire to advance your career where you are, a sponsor is particularly essential. Your sponsor need not be a colleague whom you interact with on a daily basis. It is, however, imperative that you choose a sponsor who is a champion of your abilities. A sponsor can be your boss—or even someone who is a few rungs above you on the company ladder—but should be someone who has company clout. The job of a sponsor is not the same as a mentor’s job—it is to, in simple terms, “have your back” and advocate for you when conversations about raises and promotions are all the buzz. It is important to meet with your sponsor on a regular basis to keep him / her abreast of your workplace accomplishments and responsibilities—especially if said responsibilities are consistently increasing.

Do I need both a mentor and a sponsor?
Yes! A mentor and sponsor serve different purposes in your career. They can work in tandem with each other in order to help create the best possible workplace outcome for you, and to direct you to your metaphorical destination that you desire. Both have to believe in your abilities—but one deals with your current body of work while the other looks to your future within the company.

Is it possible for a mentor and sponsor to be one in the same?
It is absolutely possible—but be careful not to limit yourself to the same person. You can fall into that trap, especially when looking at your need for a mentor and sponsor from a convenience standpoint. It certainly makes logistics and scheduling meetings easier—but if you feel that your mentor is not a good sponsor fit for any reason, or vice versa, go with your gut.

If you have yet to go about the process of choosing a mentor and a sponsor, don’t hesitate. Make an appointment for a meeting with someone in your department who you turn to for feedback. Attend networking events with other departments. Introduce yourself—it will more than pay off.