As young women, speaking up for yourself might not always come naturally — whether it’s asking for a better grade, negotiating your first salary, or voicing your opinions at a networking event. But here’s the thing: self-advocacy is one of the most powerful skills you can develop early on. Not only does it help you get what you want and deserve, but it also boosts your confidence and strengthens your leadership skills. So, how can you advocate for yourself in a way that feels natural and effective? Let’s dive into the art of self-advocacy!
1. Understand Your Worth – And Own It!
The first step to advocating for yourself is knowing what you bring to the table. Whether you’re acing your classes, volunteering, or working part-time, recognize your strengths and how they contribute to your success. Write down your achievements and milestones. If you’re unsure where to start, think about:
- Your grades and academic accomplishments
- Skills you’ve developed, such as leadership, problem-solving, or teamwork
- Projects you’ve worked on in school or extracurriculars
- Personal qualities like determination, creativity, or resilience
When you clearly understand your value, it becomes easier to stand up for yourself when it matters.
2. Practice Speaking Up in Class
Advocating for yourself in a classroom setting can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the easiest places to start! Here are some ways you can practice self-advocacy in school:
- Ask Questions: If you don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for clarification. Your professors or teachers are there to help, and chances are, others might have the same question.
- Request Feedback: Whether it’s after a test, assignment, or presentation, ask for feedback on how you can improve. This not only shows that you care about doing your best but also helps you learn and grow.
- Speak Up for Your Needs: If you’re struggling with class material or need accommodations, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s your right to ensure you have the resources you need to succeed.
3. Nail It in Networking: Own the Conversation
Networking can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out. But networking is about building relationships, not just trying to get something from someone. The key is to be proactive in conversations:
- Introduce Yourself Confidently: Whether you’re meeting someone at an event or connecting with a potential mentor, practice introducing yourself clearly and confidently. Say something like, “Hi, I’m [Your Name], and I’m really interested in [industry or field].”
- Be Curious and Ask Questions: Networking isn’t just about talking about yourself. It’s about learning from others. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that show you’re interested in what they do. For example, “What’s your favorite part of your job?” or “How did you get started in this field?”
- Follow Up: After meeting someone, send a quick email or LinkedIn message saying thanks and expressing your interest in staying connected. It’s a small gesture that shows you value the relationship.
4. Nail Your First Job or Internship – Speak Up for Yourself Professionally
The workplace can be a tricky place for self-advocacy, especially if it’s your first internship or job. But remember: you have a right to ask for what you need to succeed. Here’s how to advocate for yourself professionally:
- Set Clear Expectations: Whether it’s with your manager or supervisor, make sure you understand your responsibilities and deadlines. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re stuck on a task or unsure how to do something, ask questions! It shows that you’re committed to doing things the right way and that you’re eager to learn.
- Express Your Achievements: When you accomplish something great, don’t just let it slide by. Share your success with your manager or team. For example, “I’m proud that I finished the project early, and I’d love to take on more responsibilities going forward.”
5. Learn to Say “No” Without Feeling Guilty
One of the hardest parts of self-advocacy is saying no. Whether it’s a friend asking for a favor you don’t have time for or a professor piling on extra work, it’s okay to set boundaries.
- Politely Decline: Practice saying no in a polite but firm way. You can say something like, “I really appreciate the opportunity, but I’m unable to take on any additional responsibilities right now.”
- Offer an Alternative: If you want to help but can’t commit, offer another solution. For example, “I can’t take this on right now, but I’d be happy to help in the future or point you to someone else.”
6. Keep Track of Your Progress
As you start to practice self-advocacy, take note of your successes and challenges. Keep a journal where you reflect on situations where you spoke up for yourself — and how it felt. Did you get the outcome you wanted? What could you improve for next time? This will help you grow and improve your self-advocacy skills.
Self-Advocacy is Your Superpower!
Self-advocacy isn’t just about asking for what you deserve; it’s about respecting yourself enough to know you have a right to ask for help, set boundaries, and take up space. It takes practice, but the more you do it, the more natural it will feel. From speaking up in class to advocating for your needs at work, self-advocacy will empower you to take charge of your future!
So, don’t be afraid to raise your hand, ask for what you need, and own your voice. The world needs to hear what you have to say — and it’s time to make sure it does!