The Brainy Business | Understanding the Psychology of Why People Buy | Behavioral Economics cover image

The Brainy Business | Understanding the Psychology of Why People Buy | Behavioral Economics

489. Beyond Mentorship - How to Sponsor Success

Apr 17, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Rosalind Chow, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University specializing in organizational behavior, shares invaluable insights from her book, The Doors You Can Open. She differentiates between mentorship and sponsorship, highlighting how the latter creates more meaningful opportunities for career advancement. The conversation dives into the effects of social hierarchy on diversity and inclusion, the power of positive connections, and the critical role of deep listening. Real-world examples, like Kim Ng's journey, demonstrate the transformative potential of effective sponsorship.
47:19

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The distinction between mentorship and sponsorship is crucial for career development, as sponsorship actively creates opportunities rather than just providing guidance.
  • Understanding power dynamics and status within organizations is essential, as effective sponsorship relies more on trust and respect than on authority.

Deep dives

The Importance of Opening Doors for Others

Opening doors for others is a vital principle that can significantly enrich one's life and career. This act goes beyond simply assisting someone in achieving their goals; it signifies the intentional effort to leverage personal influence to create opportunities for others, regardless of one's position within an organization. Many believe that only those in high-status roles can impact others, but the reality is that anyone can facilitate the success of others, fostering a more inclusive environment. These actions not only benefit the person being helped but also enrich the sponsor's experiences and connections along the way.

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