How to Speak Up
Saying something at work can be intimidating. It doesn't have to be.
There’s a trend with Gen Z in the workforce - they’re quitting jobs instead of asking for what they want. They’re quitting more quickly and more often than previous generations.
Simon Sinek has spoken about it, and there’s a great article by Diana Valenzuela on the topic. That article is featured on Katie Couric’s website. You can read it here.
There are many theories on why this is the case: Covid-19, mental health awareness, and social media.
One guy on TikTok had an interesting theory too. He said that Gen Z was born into this planet-on-fire-take-from-the-poor-and-give-to-the-rich insane situation, so, fuck it. You can have your corporations and your offices. There are other options out there, and we will find them.
It’s all true.
I worked with Gen Z, and I loved it. They are fierce, savvy, and unafraid. They are innovative and accepting. The only pointers I can give them now is how to speak up - how to speak to the older generations (the bosses) to get what they want.
Sure, you could quit, or you can learn how to ask for what you want.
Ask For What You Want
Your bosses don’t know what you’re thinking. They’re not mind readers. Most of them, especially if they’re Gen X, will assume everything is great unless you tell them otherwise.
I’m Gen X. I’ve been known to be straightforward and no bullshit. When I led teams, I was busy - really busy. I didn’t have time to guess what other people may or may not be thinking. I was like, “Tell me what you want. I’ll see if I can get it for you. Let’s go.”
Your bosses may be like this too.
Ask your boss about a good time to speak to them. That way, you can be sure they will hear you. When you meet with them, be clear.
“Thanks for meeting with me. I wanted to speak with you because I really enjoy _______. I was wondering if I could help with ________. Learn about _______. Contribute to _______. My goal is to be promoted to the next level (get a raise, etc.) within _____ time frame. How can I get there?”
When I wanted to become a store manager, my boss knew it. I talked about it often.
If you think your boss knows what you want and you haven’t told them, they probably don’t know.
Talk About an Issue
It can feel awkward to address something that’s not working out. However, when companies roll out new initiatives or software, they need to know what’s wrong with it.
After you’ve worked with the new system for a month or so, you can offer genuine feedback. You can do it in a meeting or written communication. Acknowledge what’s working too.
“We’ve had some time to adjust to _____. These things are helping us streamline our work. This other part is somewhat clumsy and not helping.”
Show that you can be analytical, and your bosses will be more receptive.
If you’re just like, “This new thing is dumb and I hate it,” your boss will be like, “Oh well. Suck it up.”
See how those are different?
Dope. You got this.
MAILBOX
I got this message recently -
“I think the biggest thing in retail is that we are adaptable. Change comes daily and we adjust or fail. It is so true that retail professionals should be considered more, yet we aren’t. The constant pressure and stress and lack of a daily routine would ruin most people.”
EXACTLY.
The constant pressure and stress and lack of a daily routine would ruin most people.
Yes. Yes, it would.
LEVEL UP
One thing you can do today is to level up your leadership game.
Speak up. (See above).
Addressing concerns and offering solutions is what makes good leaders great.
Let's Connect
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Love this, Lot. Lack of communication breaks couples every day, but it also limits our job opportunities, and creates many unnecessary conflicts.
It's nice to know you'll be in San Diego. I wish I could have a coffee with you!!!
Excellent detailed example of how to have that discussion when speaking up!!! So easy to say "speak up" but hard to show how. Thanks!