Sponsors listen not for details of the crisis, but for signs of self-pity, fear, resentment and negative thinking. Sponsors share the importance of the Twelve Traditions, and explains their necessity for our group health. Sponsors do not pretend to have all the answers. A good sponsor will quickly admit when they do not know, and will suggest reading CAL together. Sponsors never take anothers inventory but give honest answers if asked.
Sponsors never give advice or make decisions for the member, particularly about family issues.
Sponsors have a commitment to recovery and lets the newcomer know that the quality of recovery is in direct proportion to the effort put into it. Sponsors underline the importance of principles above personalities. Sponsors avoid dwelling on personal problems, but share the Experience, Strength and Hope of personal recovery. Sponsors present the program simply. Sponsors lead by example, and a good sponsor does not expect the newcomer to do anything they themselves are not doing or have not done.