In today’s rapidly changing world, waiting quietly in the wings doesn’t get you noticed—it gets you left behind.
Many of us were taught that hard work alone is the key to advancement, but the reality is different, especially for women in professional settings. To make real progress in 2025, we need to shift from hoping our efforts will be recognised to ensuring they are.
We need to advocate for ourselves, and that means using our voice with confidence and clarity.
A survey by Lean In revealed that 70% of women feel they are being held back due to a lack of visibility in the workplace. It’s not that women aren’t doing great work—on the contrary, many of us are delivering results that drive our teams and companies forward. But if we don’t speak up about our achievements, we risk being overlooked for promotions, leadership roles, or critical projects.
Author Alice Walker once said, ‘The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.’
In 2025, we can’t afford to underestimate our own influence—especially when it comes to advocating for ourselves. Economic uncertainty, technological advancements, and shifting business priorities mean that waiting passively is no longer a viable option.
Instead, we need to take charge of our narratives and make strategic, empowered choices about how we show up in our careers.
So, how do we do this?
1. Own Your Story
Reflect on your accomplishments, the value you bring, and the impact you’ve had. Don’t rely on your manager or team to notice every win—tell them. Whether it’s during a performance review, in a team meeting, or a casual catch-up, share specific examples of how you’ve contributed. You’re not bragging; you’re providing context and clarity about the results you deliver. You can do this in a way that is authentic to you, the main thing is you do it.
2. Leverage Your Network
Research shows that women who actively network are more likely to advance in their careers. Reach out to mentors, sponsors, and colleagues who can amplify your voice. Build connections across departments and industries, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance or advocacy. Remember, your network is a powerful tool, not just a support system. It may also be timely to assess who else you need as part of your network – be strategic about this.
3. Set Clear Goals and Communicate Them
Be proactive about setting clear, measurable goals for yourself. Share these goals with those who can keep you accountable to them. It could be your leader, an associate, a mentor or someone in your network. When you do this, you’re not only holding yourself accountable but also ensuring that others know what you’re working toward. This makes it easier for people to support you and opens the door for conversations about opportunities that align with your ambitions. It also breathes life into your goals.
4. Speak Up, Even When It’s Uncomfortable
This is a big one. For many women, self-promotion feels unnatural, but it’s a necessary skill to master. Challenge yourself to speak up, even when it feels uncomfortable. Start small: share a recent success in a team meeting or update your LinkedIn profile with your latest project achievements. This isn’t about being arrogant or boastful but sharing how you have made a difference or have overcome a challenge. Over time, this practice builds confidence and makes advocating for yourself a habit. Remember, if you feel uncomfortable, that’s where your growth is.
5. Be Prepared for Pushback and Keep Going
The world won’t always respond positively to women who assert themselves, and that’s a fact we can’t ignore. But being prepared for resistance is part of what makes us resilient. If you face criticism, don’t shrink back. Instead, stand firm, knowing that advocating for yourself isn’t just about your career—it’s about setting an example for others who might be struggling to find their voice.
As we prepare to step into 2025, remember that no one else can tell your story the way you can. By using your voice, advocating for yourself, and making empowered choices, you’re not only shaping your own career path but also contributing to a broader culture shift. The future is dynamic and uncertain, but it’s also full of opportunity—especially for those who are ready to step forward and be heard.