As important as it is to receive support and endorsements from leaders, their busy schedules may cause them to miss opportunities to provide this. Therefore, it is important for employees to be proactive in this area. In a recent Harvard Business Review article (Wilding, 2024), the writer – an executive coach, professor, and author – provides readers with five actionable strategies that will help them confidently seek their leader’s advocacy.
HOW EMPLOYEES CAN SECURE ADVOCACY
- Match needs: Align your needs with your leader’s priorities to show how a leader can benefit from advocating on your behalf. Show how your ideas can create positive outcomes for all parties involved, including the business.
- Provide details: Identify specific settings or situations where a leader can advocate for you. It may also help to identify key people your leader can reach out to. This makes it easier for a leader to take actionable steps to support you.
- Produce persuasive content: Having a well-prepared presentation of your ideas in your own words can influence your leader to take the next steps. For instance, when you have an idea, take the time to prepare your sales pitch. Provide strong talking points about your project’s success or overall work performance.
- Review weekly accomplishments: Compose a concise, regularly scheduled email illuminating your team’s achievements and ongoing work. This routine can help focus attention on accomplishments. In addition, don’t wait too long to ask for a leader’s support, as the sense of urgency may get lost over time.
- Reciprocation of support: Remember that leaders also need recognition for their own strengths, achievements, and ideas. If you provide this recognition, leaders will most likely feel inclined to do the same for you. In addition, it is always a good idea to express gratitude for ongoing mentorship and support.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYEES
Employees can take a proactive stance when asking their leaders for help. Following the steps outlines in this article may lead employees to receiving – and benefiting from – greater advocacy from organizational leadership.
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