Show and Tell: Three Steps to Mastering the Art of Self-Advocacy

It’s easy to assume our hard work will automatically earn its spotlight. However, the truth often sings a different tune. Waiting for a manager’s nod or a colleague’s applause to validate our efforts can be like waiting for rain in a drought—hopeful yet painstakingly slow. It's time we understood a fundamental truth: You are the architect of your success story. Here’s how to lay the foundations, brick by brick.

- Document Your Journey: Begin by chronicling your achievements. This isn't about boasting but about painting a picture of your career journey with facts and figures. Create your own portfolio that showcases your wins, demonstrates your leadership, and outlines your contributions through quantifiable metrics. Think of it as your personal exhibit in the museum of professional excellence. This portfolio isn't just a collection; it's your narrative, a testament to your growth and impact, narrated through the unarguable voice of data (You can't argue with numbers. They don't have an opinion.) When it’s time for your review, this documentation will serve as irrefutable evidence of your dedication and achievements.

 - Showcase Your Success: Don’t be shy about your accomplishments. The business world thrives on visibility. Your achievements should not be hidden like family secrets but displayed like medals of honor. But here’s the kicker - success is not just about flaunting; it’s about demonstrating with undeniable evidence. It’s one thing to claim you’re determined or ambitious; it’s another to show growth percentages, leadership initiatives that turned the tides, and projects that exceeded expectations. Let your success make noise through numbers and results. This solid foundation of facts and figures will not only earn you the recognition you deserve but will also set a benchmark for your future endeavors.

- Seek Clarity: Know your battlefield before you set out to conquer. Engage in a dialogue with your manager to understand what success looks like for them in a particular project. But don’t stop there. Ask yourself, what does success mean to you? Aligning your manager’s vision with your personal goals sets a clear path forward and enables you to tailor your efforts for maximum impact. This two-way clarity not only enhances your performance but ensures that your achievements resonate well with your team’s objectives and the broader organizational goals.

In the grand scheme of things, your success is a tale only you can tell effectively. Simply waiting by for others to acknowledge your efforts is like hoping to win a game without keeping score. Take charge, document your wins, share them with pride, and seek clarity to ensure your efforts align with the larger goals. Remember, in the narrative of your professional journey, you’re not just a character but the storyteller — the storyteller. Let’s not just talk about it; demonstrate it with data, showcase your triumphs, and always seek clarity on your path to success. Because at the end of the day, the most potent advocate for your career is you.