[SCRIPTS] 4 Steps to Take Before "Things Settle"

Don't wait to see "where things settle" to start advocating for yourself. 

If you wait, the big decisions will be made for you. 

You'll be told again, "You're doing great, and we can revisit your promotion next year." 

The time to start becoming your own best advocate is NOW, not later. 

Here are four simple steps you can take THIS WEEK:  

1. Take stock of your contributions. Make a list.  

Make this a habit and update it on the regular. You'll never be at a loss as to what to say when you get to update on your progress.

2. Ask yourself, "What goes unsaid about the benefit of my contributions?" 

For example, if you're in a support role, then it goes unsaid that you take care of your manager's schedule so that she's freed up to make decisions. 

If you're a credit manager, it goes unsaid that your critical thinking protects the bank from undue risk -- before, during, and after a global pandemic. 

It might seem obvious, but voicing the benefit that goes unsaid is the task of articulating your value. 

3. Have an honest and factual conversation with your manager.  

You can initiate it with, "With so many of us working from home now, we don't get to talk as often as we did in the office, so I wanted to touch base and update you on the progress I'm making so far." 

If your manager most cares about the numbers, then start with the numbers and explain how you made it happen. 

If she cares most about a key client account, then talk about how your contributions will impact this client's account. 

When you address her top priorities, you will have her attention. 

4. Then ask a simple question. 

After the quick highlights, follow it up with, "Would you agree that I'm adding value?" 

If the response is "Yes, of course," then add: 

"I'm glad you agree. I'm invested in growing here, and I'd like to hear your thoughts on how I can do that with your help." 

This way, you not only get their buy-in on your value, you get them on your side. 

If the response is, "No, I don't think you're adding as much value as you can be," then get CURIOUS not furious. 

Ask an open question: "What would it take for me to add value?" Or "What do you think is missing?" 

Then shut up and listen. Take notes.

No complaining or getting defensive. 

You engage, you listen. You either win or you learn. 

The four steps are SIMPLE and doable. 

What makes this difficult is NOT what's happening out in the world. It's lack of confidence. It's mind drama about people and office politics. 

Every day I teach my clients how to build confidence from the inside out. I teach my clients how to develop the capacity to deal with difficult people and situations, so that no matter what's happening "out there", they get to be the leader they're meant to be. 

They become their own best advocates. 

If that's what you want, let's talk. CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A CONSULT.