Ask For It
Earlier on in my life and career, I used to look at the opportunities other people had and just figured they were given to them. I would see someone presenting in the all-company meeting and assume they had been chosen for their greatness. I would sit back and dream about the day when someone would pick me for my greatness. What I didn’t realize, is that there is a very important phase in between being a nobody and being a somebody. I call it the Ask For It phase.
About 2 years ago, right after I joined my company as a lead trainer, a small group of the full time facilitators were sent to PROSCI Change Management training. When it first happened, I was disappointed that I joined the boat too late to be included in this group. I really wanted the opportunity to do more consulting instead of just software training.
For months, I secretly pouted. I figured that if they wanted me to join that group, they would ask me. I assumed that if I just worked really hard and showed what I was capable of, that I would be picked for the team. Then one day, I got the courage to tell my manager what I hoped for. I kindly told her that if an opportunity to move in that direction ever opened up, I would want it. A few short weeks later, I was added to a Teams group chat where I learned I was being flown out for change management training.
Since that day, I have continued to live in this Ask For It phase. Anytime I see an opportunity for myself, I don’t wait for someone to notice how great I am because truthfully, I’m probably not that great yet. I’m still learning. But if I don’t ask for it now, I’ll never gain the experience needed to get to the stage when they are asking me.
Every single opportunity I have had in my current job is because I asked for it. Or I asked or volunteered for one thing which got me in a room to be noticed for something else, like the podcast I did. When I advocate for myself, it increases the likelihood of being in situations where others can advocate for me.
I do realize that I am very fortunate to have had two amazing managers that listen and act when I have asked. I know all of you may not have that, but try not to let that discourage you.
Take time this week to ask for what you want. Don’t wait for the opportunities to come to you, try to meet them halfway. Reach out for advice. Ask for a recommendation. Ask for the raise. If you’re good at something but no one knows, tell them. Be your own advocate. Your chances of being seen will greatly increase when you turn up the light.
