Manager Title, No Raise. How I Built My 3Cs of Self-Advocacy
Ever get the promotion... but freeze when it comes to asking for the raise that should accompany it? That was me. Landed the manager role, poured myself into it, and... never even thought to negotiate my salary. Thankfully, my new manager eventually recognized my value and gave me the raise. But why didn’t I ask?
Classic Imposter Syndrome. That nagging voice: "Isn't the title enough?" "Shouldn't I prove myself first?" "What if they realize I'm not really this capable?"
It was a stark lesson: Hard work alone isn't enough. You are your own best advocate. Waiting silently rarely works. That moment ignited my journey to build intentional self-advocacy – my 3C Framework:
🧠 CLARITY: Know Your Value Arsenal
· What are your non-negotiable goals?
· What unique skills/tools do you BRING?
· What impact are you delivering RIGHT NOW?* (Quantify it!)
· What exactly do you need to develop?
Be ruthless about understanding your worth and the value you create. No clarity, no compelling case.
💪 CONFIDENCE: Own Your Authentic Voice
· Stop downplaying achievements.
· Speak with conviction about what you believe in.
· Your expertise and perspective MATTER.
Confidence isn't arrogance; it's grounded belief in the value you identified in Clarity. Authenticity builds trust.
📣 COMMUNICATION: Make Your Value Visible
· Visibility is currency. Hard work unseen = work unrewarded.
· “Just start!" Initiate the conversations (reviews, check-ins, project updates).
· Tailor your message: What resonates with your manager vs. finance vs. peers?
· Articulate your Clarity with Confidence. Advocate consistently, not just during your annual review.
Don't wait for recognition like I did. Imposter syndrome might whisper, but your proven value should ROAR. Build your 3Cs:
Clarity defines your worth.
Confidence fuels your voice.
Communication amplifies your impact.
You earned your seat. Advocate for what matches your contribution. Start building your 3Cs today.
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