I believe in self-promotion – if you are going to do something, tell people about it. What is the point of not telling anyone?
Why do you have to hide your accomplishments, your goals, your dreams? It is okay to show your passion and enthusiasm for what you are doing. It will even draw people to you.
When you hear the term self-advocacy, though, what does it make you think of?
For some, it is troublesome because it rings of being self-centered or self-focused, and I get that. That isn’t a badge anyone wants to wear as it turns people away – not toward you. Yet, self-advocacy and self-centeredness are NOT the same thing.
Let’s start by getting clear on exactly What is Self-Advocacy?
Self-advocacy is defined as “The action of representing oneself or one’s views or interests.” In our personal lives and professionally, this means that our views, interests or needs matter equally to the needs of those around us. I’m not saying your needs or views matter more or that you should put yourself first. Simply that your needs matter just as much as everyone else.
To get to a place in your career where you feel satisfied with your progress, your salary, your responsibilities, etc. It’s essential that you recognize your needs and begin to act in ways that demonstrate that you value your own needs equally to those around you.
How can we expect others to know what we need and desire in our own careers if we fail to speak up and advocate for ourselves?