When to use it
Use it when you are ready for a bigger role and need someone with power to put your name forward.
How to apply it
- Identify two or three senior people who have influence over roles you want.
- Choose one whose goals your work can directly help.
- Deliver a visible result that matters to them before asking for anything.
- Tell them clearly what role or opportunity you are aiming for.
- Keep them updated on your wins so they have material when advocating for you.
- Look for ways to support their agenda, such as volunteering for their priority projects.
Tip: Sponsorship is earned through performance; asking a stranger to sponsor you rarely works.