Speak Up

What do you want in your career? A new job? A new career? A new role, assignment, or a raise at work?

What are you doing about your “want?” Are you asking, or are you waiting for someone to ask you?

A change in your career often starts with a request. This request could be a meeting with your boss to discuss a new idea. Or, an introduction to the hiring manager inside a company where you want to work.

Some of the clients I meet are not making these types of requests. Their reasons vary. The common theme I see throughout is fear. 

What is the pro of not facing fear? Fear keeps you safe. If you don’t ask, you won’t look bad or possibly get rejected. The con is things stay the same.

If you want something different, you have to do something different. Here’s how.

1. Be clear about what you are asking for.

Before you ask others, ask yourself first. “What do I want?” Be honest with yourself.

If it’s a new job, what do you want your next role to look like and what request(s) will you need to make to get it?

If it’s a change in your current role, what does that change look like, and what request(s) will you make?

Write it down. If you can’t see it, you can’t ask for it. Clarity is crucial. 

2. Believe you will get it.

Belief is trust and faith. If you don’t believe it, why should anyone else? If does not matter what type of “asker” you were in the past. Today is a brand new day. Why can’t you have this request and more?

Unwavering belief doesn’t always happen immediately. It often unfolds over time. Your start the journey and your confidence builds as you continue down the road.

3. Make your request.

The premise of making a request is simple and straightforward. You say something and a person replies. The goal is to speak to the right person who can grant your request. Clients ask me, “How do I ask?” My answer is “You ask.” They also wonder. “What do I say?” My answer is, “What you just told me you wanted to say.”

4. Be patient for an answer.

Asking on the surface seems like a request you are making to another party, but asking is also for you. Asking clears the air and gets what you want to say off your chest. Keep in mind that you have given thought to your request and the other person may need time to process it. Give your request some time to breathe. Then, ask for a date for resolution.

5. Know that whatever the outcome you will be fine.

Asking changes the course of your career. Whether your request was granted or not, you are a different person. You did what you were afraid to do. Good for you. Your self-confidence soars. Your outlook on the world changes. You are a force in the world.

So, what do you want to do with your newfound confidence? How about asking for something else?