Sponsorship is a leadership development mechanism that offers a sponsoree many career benefits, including: opportunities to expand their network; exposure to executives enterprise-wide; insight into the organization’s culture; a clear understanding of the expectations associated with the pathway to leadership; and the backing of a senior leader or key influencer for an elevated and critically important role in the organization.

Studies show that sponsorship can be a turbo charger for careers. According to a recent Deloitte report, individuals who have the active support of sponsors within their organization are more likely to advance in their careers. Moreover, sponsorship can improve the chances of more stretch assignments, more promotions, and pay raises by up to 30 percent, according to the report. Remember, mentors help you skill up but sponsors help you move up. So how do you find a sponsor? Well, unfortunately, you don’t get to choose the sponsor; the sponsor almost always chooses you, but this checklist may help you.