The Courage to Speak Up: Why Self-Advocacy Is Your Superpower at Work and Beyond
- Marlene Porter
- Aug 24
- 3 min read
by Marlene Porter
Introduction
Self-advocacy is one of the most important skills you can develop for your personal and professional growth. Self-advocacy means knowing what you want, what your strengths are, and having the courage to speak up for yourself. Self-advocacy also means setting boundaries and asking for what you need, even if the answer isn’t always “yes.”
In today’s workplace, advocating for yourself is not optional, it’s essential.
Self-Advocacy in Action
Example One:
During a recent interview, Carol felt like her expertise was being dismissed by the recruiter. Instead of shrinking back, she paused and said, “It’s frustrating that my expertise is not being recognized. I am capable, and my resume reflects that.” That moment changed everything for Carol; her resume was forwarded to the next step. Later in the call, the recruiter told her, “Always advocate for yourself. No one else will.”
Example Two:
Last year, Julie bypassed her immediate leader and spoke directly to a leader one level higher about her goals, accomplishments, and made a business case for her request. Although Julie’s immediate leader and others in the organization frowned upon this, claiming that she didn’t follow the chain of command or needed to recognize the politics in the organization, Julie knew that self-advocacy mattered more than maintaining appearances.
Both moments reinforced this truth: self-advocacy is rarely easy, but it is always worth it.
The Cost of Not Advocating for Yourself
What happens when you don’t speak up?
You risk becoming a shadow in your own story.
You may feel pigeonholed and stuck in your current role.
You may feel muffled and stifled, with your voice silenced.
You may feel like your career is dictated by others, not by you.
A career coach once told me: “If you don’t advocate for yourself, you give others permission to write your narrative for you.”
And here’s the question worth asking yourself:
“What’s the worst that can happen? Can you get let go from your organization? And if so, do you really want to work for an organization that doesn’t promote and appreciate self-advocacy?”
Being silent doesn’t keep you safe, it keeps you small.
Why Self-Advocacy Matters
Earns Respect: You show others that your expertise and time are valuable.
Drives Career Growth: Opportunities rarely come without asking.
Builds Confidence: Every act of advocacy reinforces your self-worth.
Breaks Barriers: Speaking up helps dismantle systems that silence voices.
How to Advocate for Yourself Effectively
Know your value, take time and reflect on your skills, achievements, and strengths.
Be clear and direct, don’t water down your ask.
Stay professional but firm, and remember assertiveness is not aggression.
Support your case with evidence. Use results, data, and examples.
Accept discomfort. Advocacy may ruffle feathers, and that’s okay.
Additional Tips for Building Confidence at Work
· Start Small: Speak up in low-stakes settings first.
· Find Allies: Mentors and peers can amplify your voice.
· Reframe Rejection: A “no” doesn’t erase your worth.
· Celebrate Wins: Every act of advocacy is a success.
Conclusion
Self-advocacy is not arrogance; it’s empowerment. By speaking up for yourself, you not only advance your career but also inspire others to do the same.
Remember, “If you don’t advocate for yourself, no one else will.” Now is the time to reclaim your growth, your confidence, and your future.
Take the Next Step
At MP Insight Solutions LLC, we know that self-advocacy is the foundation of leadership and professional growth. If you’re ready to develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to advocate for yourself and lead with impact, we can help.
Our leadership and professional consulting services empower individuals and organizations to:
Strengthen self-advocacy and communication skills.
Build confidence in navigating workplace challenges.
Create environments that value respect, recognition, and growth.
👉 Contact MP Insight Solutions LLC today to start building the courage, clarity, and confidence you need to move forward.
