Alison Fragale, a professor of organizational behavior and author of "Likeable Badass," shares insights on navigating workplace dynamics and self-promotion. She discusses the science of negotiation, advocating for oneself, and transitioning women from defense to offense in their careers. Alison emphasizes the importance of assertiveness paired with warmth, understanding office politics, and proactive resource building. Her practical strategies help listeners secure what they want while maintaining integrity and authenticity.
Actively requesting what you want is essential for breaking through self-imposed limits and unlocking new opportunities.
Understanding the dynamics of status is crucial for negotiating effectively and ensuring that your qualifications are recognized, especially for women.
Embracing office politics as a strategic tool allows individuals to influence outcomes and cultivate supportive relationships for professional advancement.
Deep dives
The Power of Asking for What You Want
Requesting is crucial for achieving desired outcomes. It is emphasized that one cannot expect unrequested opportunities to present themselves, effectively setting a limit on what is attainable. By actively asking, individuals can push beyond these ceilings and unlock possibilities previously perceived as unattainable. This approach not only aligns with personal growth but also encourages proactivity in both professional and personal spheres.
Understanding Status and Its Importance
Status is discussed as a form of power and respect, vital for success in both careers and personal interactions. It's highlighted that many individuals undervalue the significance of perceived respect, which directly influences their ability to negotiate and advocate for themselves. Women, in particular, often face unique challenges regarding status, where they may be undervalued despite their qualifications. By understanding and strategically managing their status, individuals can enhance both their influence and opportunities.
Navigating Office Politics Wisely
Office politics, often viewed negatively, is framed as a necessary tool for navigating workplace dynamics effectively. Understanding relationships within the workplace allows individuals to influence outcomes and gain support for their initiatives. Rather than dismissing office politics, embracing it as a strategic necessity can empower individuals to advocate for their ideas more effectively. This involves recognizing that cultivating alliances is essential for achieving professional goals.
The Art of Self-Promotion
Self-promotion is highlighted as an essential skill, yet many individuals feel uncomfortable with it. Techniques such as combining personal achievements with acknowledgments of others can ease this discomfort and present a more balanced approach. For instance, sharing successes while recognizing team contributions allows for effective self-promotion without appearing overly self-centered. Encouraging individuals to practice self-promotion in low-stakes situations gradually builds confidence for more significant opportunities.
Leveraging Relationships for Success
Building and maintaining strong relationships is underscored as critical for personal and professional growth. The discussion emphasizes how networking, whether formal or casual, can create opportunities and provide support when needed. Strategic use of relationships enhances one's status and influence, ultimately leading to better outcomes in negotiations and career advancement. Understanding and investing in these connections creates a supportive environment that fosters mutual success.
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly command respect and get what they want, while others struggle to be heard? In this episode, I sat down with Alison Fragale to find out why. Alison — professor of organizational behavior at the University of North Carolina and the author of “Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve”— is breaking down the science behind negotiation, status, and self-promotion.
If you've ever struggled with finding your voice at work, navigating office politics, or just want to understand how to wield power and influence without compromising your integrity, this episode is for you.