The brutal answer: Why you fear speaking up.
Jul 23, 2025 10:16 am
Dear ,
I'm fresh off the pod-mic! Earlier this afternoon I was a guest on a podcast: BE Curious, a new podcast that will be launching at the end of the month.
The host Derek asked me this question: "The World Economic Forum’s survey says 86% of people feel unheard at work. These numbers are astonishing, what are some of the contributing factors?"
I gave a huge sigh. Ah... I know of many people who feel this way, especially peeps who studied hard in their uni days, working their butts off to be their best selves, only to feel lost in the big companies they work for, or while building their business in a crowded market.
We get so busy working hard and churning out our deliverables, but what about advocating for ourselves? What about sharing our ideas and actually being seen for the work we do?
If you've ever felt like
- your suggestions don't get considered
- your voice disappears in a meeting with global stakeholders
- your big dreams are slowly shrinking when you're met with the "realities" of life
You're not alone. Trust me, I feel that on a regular basis. The speaking/coaching industry is getting more and more saturated and it can feel quite overwhelming at times.
Here's the brutal truth:
You feel unheard at work because you're not hearing yourself.
Yes, the environment plays a huge role. The company leadership should have the intention and frameworks to create psychological safety such that you and your colleagues feel safe to speak up, share your ideas, and not overthink about being marked down.
However, a lot of it is within your control. The energy in which you show up WILL influence the way people treat you and your ideas.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Are you equipped to recognise the value in your voice?
- Do you have the courage to speak up and share their ideas? (are you willing to "fail", and will you have your own back when you do "fail"?)
- Do you know how to advocate for yourself?
Cuz honestly, it is not someone else's responsibility to make you feel heard... it is YOURS.
Here's an easy first step to take responsibility for your voice: an upcoming Free Webinar I'll be having Next Thursday.
What You'll Be Learning:
- The #1 mistake that most professionals make that kill their influence instantly (even when they're the most qualified person in the room)
- Why top leaders don't just lean into "executive presence" and what they do instead
- How to speak and lead with more influence regardless of your age, title or experience
This Webinar Is For You If:
✓ You're technically brilliant but struggle to influence others or get them to take action
✓ You feel like you need to be older, smarter, or more experienced to be respected as a leader
✓ You're tired of "fake it till you make it" advice that leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself
✓ You want to lead with authenticity but worry it might create friction
✓ You're ready to discover what truly separates leaders people follow from leaders people just tolerate
If you've been to one of my webinars, or even just read my emails, you'll know how much heart and soul I put in to every experience I create, even free ones.
So come! Whether you've just transitioned into a new role/ position, or you're a seasoned entrepreneur or leader, you will definitely take something away to apply at work or in life.
You also get to connect with me and ask me questions!
Don't be a stranger, I'll see you there okay?
Always in your corner,
Rae xx