There’s a simple yet powerful tactic for driving the sort of diversity that bolsters the performance and health of your business. In a word: sponsorship. To do well in a system that favors the “in” group, those outside need a champion or a sponsor. Women, it turns out, have plenty of mentors, but not nearly as many sponsors as men do.

 

Sponsorship occurs whenever one person of influence promotes the achievements, capabilities and future potential of someone else.

 

What is the difference between a mentor and a sponsor? Although mentoring conversations can be useful, these happen privately. Sponsorship is public. Mentors proffer friendly advice, sponsors pull you up to the next level.

 

So, what sponsorship behaviors are most effective?

 

Susan Drumm, CEO Coach, shares a list of ways that you and your senior colleagues can sponsor a woman on your team and make all the difference in their career.