Have you struggled with advancing your career and don’t know what steps to take? Do you feel stuck and don’t know who to turn to for help? The key to success is not doing it alone and proactively seeking out the "right" mentors and sponsors. Research has shown that 75% of executives credit their mentors with helping them reach their current positions. That’s a large number and demonstrates the importance of mentors and sponsors on ones’ career. In this episode, we'll discuss the important differences between mentors and sponsors and how to identify them and where to find them. DISCOVER YOUR STRENGTHS & BARRIERS TO SUCCESS Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [01:59] Research on mentors and sponsors [03:32] Identifying the right mentors and sponsors [04:51] The difference between mentors and sponsors [07:15] Mentors don’t have to look like you [11:08] Be strategic in seeking out mentors [13:49] Exercise to help you identify the best mentors & sponsors for you [15:22] Where to find mentors Quotes: “Career success really is one of the things that you cannot do alone.” – Monica Marquez “75% of executives credit their mentors in helping them reach their current positions.” – Monica Marquez “Research has shown that if you want to get ahead and move up in your career, you need a sponsor.” – Monica Marquez “Mentors are everywhere - they can be in your organization, outside of your organization, within the industry that you're in or looking to transition to.” – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez