The sponsor is there, apart from other support, to help with securing resources. At the end of the day, he or she will act as the spokesperson for the project and influence other executives. Remember: don’t waste your sponsor's support on mere tactical matters, advises an article on thebalance.com.
Recruit a sponsor and onboard that person
Does your project have strategic implications? Will it affect customers or increase the efficiency of internal activities? Then the chances of finding an executive sponsor are good. Reinforce the reputation of the project, then clarify what the role of a sponsor is and ask for help. Effective sponsorship will increase the positive impact of the project.
Usually, the executive who becomes the sponsor of your project will have no formal training, so explain what you need. The role of a sponsor is strategic in nature – this person should be concerned about accountability, reinforcement of values and protecting the whole project team.
Involve the sponsor
To get most out of your relationship with the sponsor, you must make it highly interactive. Establish a clear communication protocol. Provide regular updates and information on how you respond to emergencies if they appear. Invite your sponsor to at least some of team meetings to show that you really are interested in his or her support and help.
Also ask for coaching – having someone experienced who can give you constructive feedback about your performance is valuable.
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