Promote Your Employee Voice

Speak Up

Speaking up at work includes more than just participating in meetings. It also involves advertising yourself, your impact, and how you contribute to the company. Think of yourself as a marketing firm for your personal brand. In organizations, people will not go look for your accomplishments, so you have to use your voice to highlight them. The best way to do this is through one-on-one sessions with your boss. If you do not have regular meetings with your boss, now is a great time to start. In addition, if you can speak to other leaders in your department, do not be afraid to mention your impact on the department’s success. Another way to speak up and get noticed is by volunteering for projects. However, ensure the projects help you grow and develop professionally. Be sure to keep in mind your well-being when volunteering for additional projects. Do not overload yourself with work that you do not have the capacity for.

Speak Out

Speaking out at work means providing feedback that can improve the organization. Leaders are forward-thinking, and they appreciate employees who can help them achieve their futuristic agendas. Look for ways to increase the efficiency of your position. This gives you a chance to go beyond showcasing the work you currently do to emphasizing the work you are capable of doing as well. Your ambition and drive will stand out and get you noticed (positively) even if your suggestions are not implemented. Also, speak out about areas of improvement in the company that can lead to more effective operations. Share your thoughts on things that can be done to streamline processes and ways to cut costs (saving money is always at the top of leaders’ minds). Finally, speak out about things that could prevent the company from experiencing negative impacts, such as safety or workplace concerns. Speaking out this way shows your commitment to the company and sets you apart from your co-workers.

Speak In

Speaking in focuses more on the internal communications that you say to yourself. However, they carry just as much weight as the other elements. By speaking positively within yourself, you cultivate the confidence needed to promote your voice to others. You cannot expect to project great things externally if you do not first generate them internally. Remind yourself of all the things you have accomplished. Give yourself praise even when no one else will. Do not let the doubt silence your inner voice because stepping into uncertainty is what leads to clarity. There is a saying called “Fail Fast.” This is something that most successful people live by. Not because they enjoy failing but because they enjoy the lessons and growth from their failure. So, when in doubt or fear of failure, speak greatness into yourself and remember to celebrate your wins, both big and small. Your voice is the most powerful tool you have to accelerate your career.