Self-advocacy is an essential skill, particularly in the workplace. Whether it’s requesting adjustments, seeking support, or clarifying your needs, advocating for yourself empowers you to take control of your professional journey and ensures that you have the support you need to thrive in your role.
In an inclusive workplace, everyone should feel valued and supported. However, for people with disability, this often means speaking up and requesting necessary accommodations. Self-advocacy is about recognising your strengths and ensuring that any barriers to success are addressed.
Why self-advocacy is important
Self-advocacy is crucial because it ensures equal opportunities and support in the workplace. Advocating for yourself helps to create a workplace where differences are not only accepted but embraced.
Here’s why self-advocacy matters:
- Ensures equal access: Self-advocacy ensures that you have the adjustments necessary to do your job well. Whether it’s assistive technology, flexible hours, or workspace changes, these accommodations help you perform at your best.
- Boosts confidence: When you advocate for yourself, you build confidence. Knowing you can ask for the changes that will help you succeed makes you feel empowered and in control, leading to greater job satisfaction and better performance.
- Promotes inclusivity: Speaking up about your needs also raises awareness about the challenges people with disability face, promoting a more inclusive workplace culture where everyone’s differences are respected.
- Improves communication: Clear communication with your manager and colleagues creates better working relationships. Discussing your needs openly sets clear expectations and fosters mutual understanding.
- Reduces stress: Not advocating for yourself can lead to stress and frustration. By addressing your needs, you create a supportive work environment where misunderstandings are reduced, and you can perform at your best.
5 Actionable Tips for Advocating for Yourself
- Know your rights and resources
Understanding your rights is the first step in advocating for yourself. In Australia, the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 ensures that people with disability have the right to request reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Familiarise yourself with resources available to you, such as government funding programs like the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) or workplace diversity initiatives. Knowing your options helps you make informed and confident requests.
- Be clear and specific about your needs
When advocating for yourself, clarity is key. Be specific about the adjustments you need—whether it’s software, ergonomic equipment, or a flexible schedule—and explain how these changes will help you succeed. The more clear and detailed your request, the more likely it is that your employer will understand and accommodate your needs.
- Prepare for conversations
Self-advocacy can feel daunting, but preparation can make it easier. Write down the key points you want to cover and practice what you want to say. Being well-prepared helps reduce anxiety and boosts your confidence. Anticipate potential questions your manager might have and be ready to discuss them in a constructive way.
- Document everything
Keep records of all communications related to your requests for accommodations or adjustments. This can include emails, meeting notes, or official requests. Documentation ensures clarity and accountability, helping you track the progress of your requests and providing proof in case any issues arise later.
- Seek support from allies and mentors
Having a support network can make advocating for yourself more effective. Find allies at work—whether it’s a colleague, supervisor, or HR representative—who can support and amplify your requests. Additionally, connecting with a mentor who has experience navigating workplace challenges as a person with disability can provide valuable guidance and boost your confidence.
Self-advocacy is essential not only for your personal success but also for creating a more inclusive workplace for all employees.
By understanding your rights, being clear about your needs, and preparing for important conversations, you can advocate for yourself with confidence. Remember, self-advocacy is an ongoing process, and each time you speak up for yourself, you help foster a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
About Jigsaw
Jigsaw is a social enterprise that provides an innovative pathway to mainstream employment for people with disability. By embedding a comprehensive skill-based training program within our commercial document and data management business, Jigsaw enables people with disability to achieve their employment goals at their own pace. Jigsaw’s holistic approach starts from the very basics of core work skills and supports trainees all the way through to transition to open employment with ongoing support and coaching once they have transitioned. Jigsaw is located in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Canberra.