Mentoring and sponsorship

The difference between mentoring and sponsorship is the distinction between guiding and carrying. The mentor shows the mentee the way, gives them time, and accompanies their development; the sponsor carries the mentee to concrete opportunities and puts their own reputation on the line on their behalf. The mentor 'talks with you', the sponsor 'talks for you'. The two are different but complementary functions; one person can do both. Mentoring touches development directly, sponsorship touches advancement.