The path to high-level leadership often begins at the manager level, so the fact that sixty percent of managers are men and forty percent are women means fewer women will also reach top leadership roles (McKinsey & Company and LeanIn.Org). For women looking to break through the gate and reach a well-earned first-level or top-level leadership position, my advice is to start building mentorship and sponsorship relationships now. As a woman and CEO within the credit union industry, I know the value of both. And the sooner you start, the better.

Start by looking around at leaders you admire for possible mentors or sponsors. It could be someone at your credit union, your own boss, or leaders at other industry organizations, depending on your goals. Reach out to them, explain your interest in their work and ask questions. If you don’t know someone, then network. Go to industry events or seek out and join mentoring programs.

If you can’t find a formal mentor or sponsor, don’t give up. Organic relationships can still be helpful. I didn’t have a formal mentor early in my career, but I had some valuable organic experiences with leaders who recognized my talents, drive, and ambition. They’re the ones who gave me the opportunities and freedom to try. And, when you get that freedom to try, sometimes you'll do really well, and other times you might fail. The opportunity to learn is what ultimately matters. The important thing was I had that opportunity to learn. I was able to have conversations with those organic mentors about my failures, asking, “How can I do better?” That’s how I grew.

When it comes to forming those organic relationships, always have a few questions ready. It can help you make the most of every opportunity, even a quick elevator conversation. One good example of a question you could ask is, “What's your leadership mantra?” I call these mantras of my own, “Libbyisms.” One I share often is, “What you permit you promote.” It’s a mini leadership lesson for a two-minute conversation. These brief questions could even be a step in developing an organic mentorship. Either way, you walk away with something.

Remember also, that mentorship, and even sponsorships, are reciprocal relationships. You also have something to contribute. Mentors and sponsors can get just as much growth from learning your perspectives and aspirations, as well as from sharing in your energy and enthusiasm. Being a mentor has helped me as a leader adjust my messaging to be more relevant within our team. I’ve learned lessons that led me to change how I communicate. The best mentorship relationships I’ve had as both an informal mentee and mentor have involved empathy and keeping an open heart and mind.

So, if you’re a woman wondering how to break through into your first or a higher leadership position, don’t underestimate the importance of mentorship and sponsorship. Don’t be afraid to seek these relationships out and ask questions! Then put in the hard work and apply what you’ve learned.