Silence is Stalling Your Career: 5 Things You Need to Know
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This week, I spoke with five people who are unhappy at work. The root cause?
What they are leaving unsaid is stalling their growth.
In case this resonates with you, here’s what I told them:
If you don’t ask for what you need, you’ll keep getting what you’ve always gotten.
You have to be your own advocate.
It might feel uncomfortable, but staying silent is a far bigger risk.
Here are five common scenarios where silence can hurt your career, along with practical ways to start the conversation and take back control.
5 Things You Need to Know About Things Left Unsaid
I.
Not Asking for a Raise
You’ve been consistently delivering strong results, taking on extra responsibilities, and contributing above and beyond, but your paycheck hasn’t changed in years. You know you deserve a raise, but you’ve been waiting for someone to notice.
Try this:
”I’ve been reflecting on my contributions this year and would like to discuss aligning my compensation with the value I bring to the team. Could we schedule a time to discuss your perspective?”
II.
Staying Quiet About a Promotion
You’ve been performing at the next level for a while now, but instead of being promoted, you’re stuck in the same role. Each day that goes by, you’re losing confidence in the possibility of advancement because you haven’t spoken up.
Try this:
"I’ve been taking on responsibilities that align with a higher role, and I’d like to explore what it would take to move into a formal promotion. Can I put some time on your calendar to get your take?"
III.
Not Addressing Toxic Behavior
You’re finding it increasingly difficult to work with a colleague whose negative attitude or behavior impacts your day. You want to address it, but the fear of confrontation has kept you silent.
Try this:
"Recently, certain behaviors in our interactions have affected my focus, and I wonder if it’s the same for you. Are you open to working together to improve the dynamic?"
IV.
Avoiding Conversations About Unethical Requests
You’re being asked to do things that don’t sit right with you—perhaps cutting corners, bending rules, or even engaging in practices that feel outright unethical. Instead of speaking up, you’ve been quietly going along with it, but the discomfort is growing.
Try this:
"I’d like to discuss a recent request that seems to conflict with our company’s values. Could you share your perspective on it?”
V.
Hiding a Skills Gap
You’ve been given new responsibilities that push you outside your comfort zone, and there’s a gap in your knowledge or skills that’s making you anxious. Instead of admitting it and asking for help, you’ve been struggling in silence.
Try this:
"I’m excited about the new challenges I’m facing, but I’ve identified a few areas where I need support or training. Can we discuss ways to close this skills gap so I can perform at my best?"
If you keep leaving things unsaid, you’re leaving your potential untapped. Advocating for yourself isn’t easy, but the alternative—staying silent—will hold you back from the success you deserve.
Start small, use the phrases above, and always end with a question.
Your future self will thank you.
As always, you can vent, ask questions, or make comments. Let’s get the conversation started below!
Your coach,
Chris
P.S. ♻ Sharing is caring. Please consider forwarding this to a colleague or friend, if you found it useful. Your kindness could improve someone else’s world of work!
