Why Allies Are The Key to Career Growth

The other day we visited a new restaurant. We had driven past it many times without stopping. Until a friend recommended it. That recommendation made us take a closer look -- and led to a delicious meal.

This is the power of a “third-party recommendation.” It is human nature to take things (and people) for granted until someone else tells us to take a closer look. And this is why it is important to strategically cultivate your allies for career growth.?Even more so for job-hunting.

When it comes to advancing your career—whether you’re aiming for a promotion or seeking your next big job opportunity—one thing is clear: you can’t do it alone. Allies play a critical role in amplifying your voice, advocating for you, and opening doors you might not even know exist.

The Power of Allies in Promotions

You work hard, deliver results, and contribute to your team’s success. Yet when it’s time to talk about promotions, you’re overlooked.

Sound familiar?

Many talented professionals, especially women, face this challenge—not because they lack ability, but because their contributions aren’t visible to the right people.

This is where allies come in. Allies are individuals who believe in your potential and are willing to advocate for you when it counts. They can:

• Raise Your Visibility: Allies can make sure ?your contributions are acknowledged in meetings or conversations with decision-makers.
• Support Your Case: Just like a restaurant recommendation, a well-placed endorsement from an ally can strengthen your argument for a promotion. This is especially helpful in male-dominated environments.?If they aren’t listening to you, who DO they listen to?

The Power of Allies in Job Hunting

Allies often have access to the “hidden job market”—roles that aren’t publicly advertised but are filled through referrals. They can:

• Provide Insider Knowledge: Allies within your target companies can share insights about the culture, leadership, and upcoming opportunities.
• Make Personal Referrals: In a world where online applications are triaged by AI bots, a referral from a trusted employee can make the difference.

How to Start Leveraging Allies. Strategically.

Building and activating your network starts with recognizing who your allies are. Think about:

• Former supervisors who know your strengths and past achievements.
• Colleagues who can vouch for your teamwork and reliability.
• Mentors who have guided you and understand your career goals.

*** Make a list of at least 10 people who could support your career growth.***

Don’t be afraid to reconnect if it’s been a while—most people are happy to help if approached with respect and clarity.

Who has been instrumental in your career so far? Reach out to one ally this week and share an update on your goals.

Share in the comments:

Who has been an ally for you, and how have they supported your growth? Your story might inspire someone else to take that first step toward reaching out.

Hi, if we haven't met yet, I’m Elizabeth Bachman, Presentation Skills Trainer, Executive Coach, and former International Opera Director.

I work with high-level executive women who “have a seat at the table” but still aren’t listened to.? Thus, they see promotions and recognition go to louder, flashier people.? (Sometimes people they have trained.)

I help hundreds of leaders become Visible & Valued? so they get the raise, the promotion or the exciting new job that will give them the recognition they deserve.

“Shift the way you’re perceived by shifting the way you communicate.”

If you want YOUR voice to be heard, book a call at www.TalkToElizabeth.com.

No Selling.

Just Talk.

Learn more at https://elizabethbachman.com/