Leadership isn’t a solo act.

Too often, brilliant women leaders hit a wall.

You’ve mastered your role, yet the next level feels elusive. Maybe it’s the lack of visibility in decision-making spaces. Maybe it’s the self-doubt whispering, “Am I ready for this?” Or maybe it’s the simple truth that advancing in leadership isn’t a solo sport.


The secret?

Mentorship, sponsorship, and coaching. Think of this trifecta as your personal board of directors—each playing a unique and vital role in your growth. Together, they provide wisdom, advocacy, and tools to help you lead with clarity and confidence.


Here’s how to build your board:

  1. Mentorship: Look for someone with the experience to guide you through the complexities ahead. They might be inside or outside your organization. What matters is that they’ve navigated a similar path and can offer you valuable insights and advice.
  2. Sponsorship: Sponsors are typically within your organization. They’re the ones who have influence at the decision-making table and are willing to use it to champion your potential. Cultivate relationships with those who see your value and can advocate for you in the rooms you’re not yet in.
  3. Coaching: A coach is ideally external to your organization. Why? They offer an unbiased perspective and create a safe space for you to explore challenges, sharpen your skills, and align your leadership with your long-term vision. Their focus is solely on your growth, without organizational politics in the mix.


When you’ve built this board of directors, you’ll find yourself moving from “almost there” to reaching new heights in your leadership journey. You’ll have the clarity, support, and confidence to step into new opportunities—and the wisdom to create them for others.


This is about more than advancing your career. It’s about becoming the leader who inspires others to rise, creating a ripple effect of growth and opportunity. Together, we’re not just breaking ceilings; we’re building a stronger foundation for everyone to thrive.

💬 Who’s on your board of directors? Let’s talk about how to build yours.

Here’s to
Denée

Denée Choice, MD, MMM

Leadership Consultant & Executive Coach