How to Advocate for Yourself as a Leader

I currently have two clients dealing with the same problem.

Shaun wants a promotion but won’t ask for it.

Lucia wants to transfer to another department but hasn’t mentioned it to anyone.

When I ask them why they’re waiting, they both give me the same answer: they’re scared.

They are scared of looking pushy, scared of being told no and scared of making things awkward with their manager.

The Fear That Keeps Leaders Stuck

I often see talented people who stay stuck in roles they’ve outgrown because they won’t speak up.

So, here is a truth bomb that I’d like to share with you!

Your career won’t move forward in the way you desire if you don’t advocate for yourself.

After talking with Shaun, something clicked for him. He realized that not asking for this promotion wasn’t just hurting him; it was hurting the business, too.

In fact, the role he’s thinking about has a massive upside for the entire organization. It would help his team work better and solve some real problems the organization is facing.

This wasn’t about ego. It was about what made sense for everyone.

How to Advocate for Yourself at Work

So, if you want to advocate for yourself, here are two critical steps:

1. Plan Your Conversation and Build Your Business Case

Don’t walk into your manager’s office and wing it. Put together a clear business case. Think through what you’ll say and why it matters. This isn’t just about what you want. It’s about how it benefits the team and organization.

2. Find the Courage to Speak Up

These conversations are uncomfortable. You’re putting yourself out there. You’re being vulnerable. And yes, you might not get the answer that you are hoping to receive.

But that’s still better than staying silent and staying stuck.

What Self-Advocacy Looks Like for Leaders

Think about your own situation right now.

Is there something you want to ask for but haven’t?

Do you have an idea that you think could help your team, but you’re holding back on sharing it?

Is there a change that you want to make in your role, but you’re too nervous to bring up?

If so, it’s time to speak up!

As a leader, advocating for yourself and your ideas is part of your job.

Leadership requires courage. Speaking up requires courage.

But here’s the real question: what’s the cost of staying quiet?