Knowing who is in your corner is critical whether you are in a job or in between jobs. Building internal advocates when you are working is one of the smartest career management moves in the book. These advocates should help open doors as well as have your back behind closed doors. During turbulent times these individuals can also be a port in the storm. Advocates are sometimes bosses but not always. Sometimes they are people who don’t even work with you. Establishing internal advocates starts with cultivating relationships. Look around your organization and ask yourself – who is an advocate?
For job seekers and those in job transition, advocates are critical. They sings your praises without hesitation and are happy to connect you to others and opportunities. Advocates can also play an important role in your support system as they frequently remind you of your positive assets and qualities. These advocates are often not cultivated during transition, they are already in place from another time in your career, therefore reinforcing the importance of identifying these advocates while working.
