Idea in Brief
The Problem
Mentoring programs operate under the promise that matching seasoned executives with up-and-coming professionals will produce all sorts of benefits. Unfortunately, relationships often remain superficial and transactional. These problems have only gotten worse with remote and hybrid work, which makes meaningful personal interaction difficult.
The Solution
To reap the full benefits of developmental relationships and create “authentic sponsorship,” companies must focus on two vital qualities: public advocacy and relational authenticity.
The Journey
Developmental relationships can evolve naturally toward authentic sponsorship. This article lays out the various stages of the journey: mentor, strategizer, connector, opportunity giver, and sponsor.