Becoming the Mentor or Sponsor You Wish You Had
- Holly Smithson
- 4 days ago
- 1 min read
PART 4: ATHENA MENTORS & SPONSORS BLOG SERIES
The greatest leaders lift others as they climb. And they know the difference between mentorship and sponsorship.
When I got strong enough, I made it a point to hire people with gaps on their resumes. Because I knew what that felt like.”
How to Be a Mentor
Offer feedback that’s actionable and kind.
Normalize non-linear paths. Share your own missteps.
Check in consistently, even when they don’t ask.
How to Be a Sponsor
Look for overlooked talent—not just high performers, but high potential.
Say someone’s name in a room they’re not in.
Make the intro, the recommendation, the push,
The Payoff
Sponsoring others strengthens your own leadership legacy—and builds a more inclusive, resilient organization.
Great leaders aren’t just remembered for what they accomplished. They’re remembered for who they lifted.
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