• The Catalyst
  • Posts
  • Navigating Career Support Systems: Mentorship and Beyond

Navigating Career Support Systems: Mentorship and Beyond

Go Beyond Just Mentorship to Build Your Board of Directors

As a woman navigating her career, it’s essential to understand the network of support that can bolster your success. From mentors to sponsors to advocates, surround yourself with wisdom and backing as you take steps towards your goals. But what’s the difference, and who do you need in your corner?

black iPhone 7

Mentors

  • Provide wisdom, advice and guidance based on their experience

  • Help develop your skills and decision-making abilities

  • Give feedback on goals, progress and balancing tradeoffs

  • Broaden perspectives and share fresh outlooks

Sponsors

  • Hold senior level influence in an organization

  • Actively advocate for high-visibility opportunities

  • Put your name forward for promotions and projects

  • Leverage their network and status to elevate youSubscribe now

Allies

  • Use their privilege and platform to intentionally empower those without it

  • Educate themselves on barriers faced and concrete ways to address biases

  • Speak up to shift cultural narratives and champion inclusive values

  • Make space for new voices; credit/defer to those voices

Advocates

  • Believe in you and your potential

  • Offer moral support; celebrate milestones

  • Defend you in difficult situations

  • Reaffirm your talents and self-worth to counter doubts

man in white dress shirt sitting beside woman in black long sleeve shirt

Having these four types of champions in appropriate measures is key to effectively navigating obstacles as you lean in to your ambitions. Consider who currently holds these roles for you and where there may be gaps to fill.

BUILD YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS!!

#womenleadership #sponsors #advocates #personalboardofdirectors #allies #mentors

#boardofdirectors

Do you have sponsors, allies and advocates? Do you know who they are?

🙏🏾Thank you for reading my newsletter! If you enjoyed reading this newsletter please support me by sharing it with your friends & family.

Don’t forget to subscribe to get the latest insights and advice on career & finance.

Subscribed

Also, please leave a COMMENT or tap the LIKE button below ❤️ (Thank YOU!)

You can connect or follow me on :

✳ Book for Speaking or Workshops: Dr. Sirisha Kuchimanchi website

💠 Instagram: @WomenCareerAndLife

➕Please add this newsletter to your contacts to ensure that none of our emails ever go to spam!