3 ways to claim your seat at the table
Read time: 4 minutes
(Image curtesy of Emmie Faust)
Last week, I shared this post on LinkedIn that seemed to resonate with thousands of readers.
So often, we wait for other people to tell us we’re ready, that we belong, that our voice matters, and that we’ve earned a seat at the table.
The fact is, we all carry knowledge, skills, and experiences that have value. But we may hesitate to speak up and contribute due to
- Self-doubt
- Lack of belonging
- Being the only one like us
- Waiting for others to see our value
This is definitely something I’ve experienced during my career journey.
As a consultant, for example, I didn’t put myself forward for projects I was well suited to, as I assumed there were others who would do a better job. I was waiting for someone to give me permission.
But the reality is, your seat at the table isn’t something others grant you—it’s something you claim for yourself. I learnt the hard way that I don’t need anyone’s validation to take up space.
Here are three ways to start claiming that space today:
1. Master your domain
A principle I try to live by is to always be the person others trust to deliver, within my domain. And being the master at anything comes from relentlessly learning, reading, practising, questioning, and staying curious. Knowing your stuff inside and out helps you (and others) build a level of confidence that silences any doubts.
Action: A good long-term action is to choose an area in your field to go deeper in—whether it’s through webinars, courses or reaching out to someone more experienced, it’s about committing to getting better and becoming the “go-to”.
2. Make yourself visible
You can’t be recognised for what you do if you stay hidden. I’ve learnt over the past year that there are so many ways to increase your visibility: share your ideas publicly, attend industry events, contribute to panels and conversations, and post what you know. It really isn’t about ego, it’s about letting people know how you can help and contribute.
Action: Post an insight, lesson learned, or piece of industry advice this week on LinkedIn or another platform. Sharing expertise publicly is the easiest way to let your voice be heard (and if you want help with this I'm happy to chat).
3. Advocate for yourself
Probably the most important point: don’t wait for someone else to give you permission! Whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, pitching your idea, asking for a raise, or something else: own your worth. I have definitely learnt in my career that I am my own best advocate. No one can speak to your value better than you can.
Action: Write down one thing you need or want right now, and ask for it. Send the email, book the meeting, make the request—and see what happens.
The bottom line
There’s room for you at the table, not because someone else says so, but because your presence, in itself, brings value. The world needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership. So don’t wait: take your seat today.
Hope that helps!
Speak soon
Dupé
PS: Whenever you're ready, feel free to enquire about working together: Get guidance on how to be more visible and grow your brand. Whether you need 1:1 coaching or ready-to-post content, hit reply and let’s chat!
And if you' like to book me to speak make an inquiry here :)
