Mentorship vs Sponsorship: Why Women in Tech Need Both

Mentorship vs Sponsorship: Why do women in tech need both

Why Mentorship Alone Isn’t Enough for Women in Tech

Women in tech continue to face unique challenges, from underrepresentation in leadership roles to a lack of visibility for promotions and high-impact projects. In mentorship vs sponsorship, mentorship has long been encouraged as a way to support career growth, it’s only part of the equation. However sponsorship is the missing piece that many women overlook, but it can be the key to unlocking real career advancement.

So, what’s the difference between mentorship vs sponsorship, and why do women in tech need both? Let’s break it down.

Mentorship vs Sponsorship: What’s the Difference?

It’s probably helpful at this point to distinguish between Mentorship and Sponsorship for those who don’t know the difference.

Mentorship: Guidance, Advice, and Support

A mentor is someone who provides guidance, shares experiences, and helps navigate workplace challenges. They offer advice on career development, work-life balance, and skill-building. Mentors are invaluable for:

  • Offering insights on professional growth
  • Providing constructive feedback
  • Helping with confidence-building and navigating workplace culture
  • Sharing lessons from their own experiences

However, mentorship alone has its limitations. While mentors offer guidance, they don’t always have the influence to actively advocate for you in key career moments.

Sponsorship: Advocacy, Visibility, and Career Advancement

A sponsor is someone in a position of power who actively advocates for your career progression. Unlike mentors who advise from the sidelines, sponsors use their influence to:

  • Recommend you for promotions, leadership roles, and high-profile projects
  • Open doors to new career opportunities
  • Advocate for your salary increases and career advancement
  • Help build your credibility within the organization

While a mentor helps you strategise, a sponsor helps you get a seat at the table.

Why Women in Tech Need Both

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry

Despite progress, women in tech often face biases that limit their career growth. Mentors can help women navigate these challenges, while sponsors actively challenge the status quo by advocating for their success.

Increasing Representation in Leadership

Sponsorship is critical for increasing the number of women in leadership roles. Studies show that men are more likely to have sponsors than women, which contributes to the leadership gap. Women need sponsors who will champion their growth and help them move up the career ladder.

Gaining Access to High-Impact Opportunities

Women in STEM fields often get stuck in support roles rather than high-impact, revenue-generating projects. A sponsor can ensure that talented women are given opportunities to showcase their skills and lead important initiatives.

Building a Strong Professional Network

Having a mentor can help build confidence and skills, but having a sponsor expands your professional network and exposes you to influential decision-makers who can elevate your career.

How to Find Mentors and Sponsors

If you’re a woman in tech looking to advance your career, here’s how you can build relationships with both mentors and sponsors:

Seek out mentors within your industry who can provide guidance and share their experiences. These can be leaders in your company, industry professionals, or even peer mentors.

Identify potential sponsors, leaders who recognise your talent and can advocate for your growth. Build a strong professional reputation, consistently deliver excellent work, and seek opportunities to engage with influential leaders.

Be intentional in networking. Attend women in tech conferences, join professional networks, and actively participate in discussions that highlight your expertise.

Communicate your career goals. Sponsors need to know your ambitions so they can help position you for opportunities that align with your aspirations.

Women in tech deserve not just advice, but advocacy.  While mentors provide essential guidance, sponsors help ensure that women receive the opportunities they’ve worked hard for. By actively seeking out both, women can accelerate their careers, break barriers, and take their place as leaders in the industry.

If you’re looking for more insights on career development and advancement strategies, let’s connect. Reach out to me today to discuss how to take your career to the next level.

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