In this blog post, we will describe what self-advocacy in the workplace means, why it is important, and provide some actionable steps to help you learn how to practice it in the workplace.
What Self-Advocacy Means and Why You Should Exercise It
Self-advocacy can often refer to situations where you express feelings of under-appreciation or frustration at work to your superiors. Additionally, it can be an incredibly valuable tool in catalyzing growth in your career, which can include seizing opportunities in the workplace as they arise, sharing your contributions, and feeling confident enough to propose new ideas. In essence, Eden describes self-advocacy as the ability to “share your contribution and value with others without feeling like you’re bragging or being self-congratulatory.”
Ways You Can Advocate for Yourself in the Workplace
Now that we have some idea of what self-advocacy is, here are ways you can practice advocating for yourself in the workplace. Firstly, you can ask directly for what you want. Begin with identifying what you want, which can be guided by setting personal goals so you can be ready when opportunities appear that can push you toward these goals. Secondly, you can keep track of your accomplishments. By doing so, you will be prepared to more strongly advocate for yourself when you are called to. Thirdly, you can contribute honestly when your work calls for it, making you more noticeable to teammates and superiors. This can help you leverage when advocating for opportunities that push you towards your goals.
More Ways to Advocate for Yourself in the Workplace
Some other actions you can take to advocate for yourself in the workplace include regularly seeking feedback, negotiating when necessary, and finding a mentor at work. When you regularly seek feedback, you indicate to your colleagues that you are open to learning and have the capacity for growth in your workplace. Furthermore, negotiating can be a powerful tool when asking for a raise, promotion or a project budget. Even if it may seem intimidating, when you have all the necessary information you may end up having more leverage than you think. Negotiating also shows that you are willing to find common ground with others at work. Finally, finding a mentor at work can be another great opportunity to learn more and grow in your field.
The Goals of Self-Advocacy
Why is practicing self-advocacy in the workplace ultimately important? It helps to make sure your voice is heard in your work environment, that your needs are met, and your accomplishments are recognized. Advocating for yourself can also serve as a reminder of how important you truly are at your work. Knowing your value and advocating for it can be incredibly beneficial for both you and your workplace!
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