1. Readiness isn’t just performance, it’s pattern recognition
If you’re waiting for someone to “prove it,” you’re already too late. Sponsorship is about spotting potential before it becomes obvious.
2. She’s not just performing, she’s aiming higher
Aspiration shows in how she talks about her work. She’s thinking beyond her current title. She sees the bigger system, and wants in.
3. Her results are repeatable, not accidental
It’s not one great project. It’s consistent delivery, intelligent iteration, and calm under pressure. She shows signs she can scale herself.
4. She’s contributing, even when no one’s asking
She doesn’t wait to be tapped. She raises her hand, shows up in the gaps, and leads from where she stands. Quiet influence counts.
5. She owns her growth
She asks for feedback. She adapts. She’s aware of her blind spots, and is working on them without needing applause.
6. She stretches when others hesitate
She volunteers for the tough assignment. Not because she’s fearless, but because she’s willing. Stretch signals readiness. You just have to be paying attention.
7. The moment that made the signal obvious
A mid-level manager in a national services firm took on a failing internal initiative, no guarantee of success, no spotlight. She turned it around. Two months later, her sponsor made one introduction. That intro led to a board-facing innovation role. Readiness wasn’t announced, it was revealed.
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Why it matters:
- HR leaders: Readiness can’t sit unnoticed. These signals help you act earlier.
- Sponsors: You don’t need more standout stars. You need to spot the leaders before they shine.
- Executives: Pipeline equity doesn’t start at promotion, it starts at visibility.