Sponsorship is one of several factors that may influence career advancement into the executive level of an organization; but the concept of sponsorshi Show moreSponsorship is one of several factors that may influence career advancement into the executive level of an organization; but the concept of sponsorship is not well understood. This proposal presents an overview of the literature about sponsorship. The proposal makes distinctions between mentorship and sponsorship. It describes a qualitative research study that asks how U.S. Air Force general officers perceive and engage in sponsorship. The aim of this study is to understand how Air Force generals understand sponsorship, and whether (and how) they engage in it. A conceptual model is proposed that considers sponsors’ perceptions based on their own experiences, the Air Force mission, psycho-social influences, and other variables. Doctorate of Management Programs Show less
