Kim Mallett of Major, Lindsey & Africa discusses the key role played by a sponsor in a law firm who helps in the career progression of a lawyer by providing advocacy and support, and pointing out opportunities for career development and business growth.
A law firm's main objective is self-perpetuation and maximizing revenue. So, how do you win that game? By figuring out how to create lucrative client relationships. One of the best ways to develop those relationships is by identifying a sponsor within your firm to help you navigate politics and serve as your advocate.
A sponsor can be a key factor in the career progression of any lawyer, especially for first-generation lawyers who are also people of color. The law firm environment can sometimes be tough, even hostile.
Although you may look and speak like everyone else at your firm, if you did not attend the same law schools or share a similar background, you might still be perceived as an outsider. One of the best ways to navigate such an environment is to connect with someone who knows the terrain. A sponsor will understand the lay of the land and can guide you through it, helping you overcome obstacles and seize opportunities.
Sponsor versus mentor
Both sponsors and mentors are crucial for your career development, but they serve different purposes.
A sponsor is akin to a godmother or godfather in the professional realm. This person who often holds a leadership position within your firm will support you unconditionally, endorsing you and elevating your visibility within it. They point out opportunities for career development and business growth, acting as a powerful advocate for your professional advancement.
A mentor, on the other hand, serves as a trusted advisor or counselor who helps guide your career progression. Unlike a sponsor, a mentor does not necessarily have to be a member of your firm. Their role is to provide positive guidance, help you develop skills, navigate firm culture, and build valuable connections.
Having mentors outside your firm can also be a strategic advantage because their outsider perspective will, among other things, give them a clearer view of how you can best assess whether you are being properly compensated.
The importance of sponsorship in BigLaw
In BigLaw, sponsorship is common, especially at the partner level. However, it is never too early to start identifying potential sponsors within your firm, even before you become a partner. This is particularly vital if you plan on continuing with the firm after you have been promoted.
A sponsor can be a powerful force in your career, helping you advance through the ranks in several ways, including:
•Advocacy — An influential sponsor can advocate for you in spaces where you may not be invited, acting as your promoter and lobbyist. Using their reputation, they can help you succeed as they recommend you for challenging assignments and significant client engagements.
•Visibility — The right sponsor will help increase your visibility with law firm leadership and will introduce you to potential clients. This increased visibility can lead to more opportunities and a stronger professional network, both of which are essential for career advancement.
•Risk-taking — In the risk-reward system of a law firm, the right sponsor will help you think through which risks are worthwhile and which will showcase your capabilities. Ideally, your sponsor will run interference with law firm leadership, making it easier for you to take those risks.
•Protection — If you are a person of color, you may be afforded fewer mistakes. Having a sponsor who speaks positively about you with others may be critical and can be a powerful protective tool. This protection can provide you with the security and confidence needed to excel.
Finding the right sponsor
Look for individuals within your firm who are in positions of prominence and have large books of business and strong client relationships. The right sponsor will have the resources, power, and connections to open doors for you. Look for sponsors who:
•Have practice-area expertise — This person will be able to share valuable insights, resources, and guidance, and their extensive network will be beneficial if they choose to introduce you. Their guidance will come from knowledge gained through experience.
•Are leaders and have influence — Ideally, your sponsor should hold a leadership position within the firm and have significant influence both inside and outside your practice group. A good sponsor will be adept at business development, with a solid book of business that has remained consistent over time.
•Possess political instinct — A sponsor who knows how to navigate the internal political intrigue of a firm will be invaluable. They can help you understand and manage the dynamics that influence firm decisions.
•Are well-respected — Look for a sponsor who is highly regarded both within the firm and more broadly. This respect and recognition can enhance your credibility and opportunities.
•Have your best interest at heart — Your sponsor must understand the challenges faced by underrepresented partners, which may require several conversations where you share your life experiences both at the firm and outside of it from your perspective.
Having a sponsor is essential for career development in a law firm. A sponsor can advocate for you, increase your visibility, help you take calculated risks, and provide protection. Identifying the right sponsor early and ensuring they have the necessary influence, expertise, and alignment with your interests will significantly enhance your career progression. By strategically leveraging the support of a sponsor, you can navigate the complexities of the law firm environment and achieve your professional goals.
