Hard work doesn’t speak for itself—it needs a voice, and that voice is yours.

Being modest is admirable, but it might be the very thing holding you back from the promotions you deserve.

If you’re waiting for your hard work to speak for itself, you could be waiting a long time.

The key?

Intentional communication that showcases your value without sounding boastful.

Here’s how…

Today’s Ladder:

How Your Communication Style Can Make or Break Your Career

1. Sharing Credit: The Fine Line Between “We” and “I”

You want to sound collaborative, so you say, “We accomplished this.” 

That seems like the right move, right?

Here’s the problem: using “we” instead of “I” can overshadow your contributions.

While you avoid appearing self-promoting, you also risk being overlooked when it’s time to recognize leadership or creativity.

Actionable Insight: Own your achievements. 

Instead of downplaying your role, balance collaboration with your individuality.

Say…

“We achieved this by leveraging my expertise in X.”

2. Acting Modest: Confidence Without Boastfulness

Confidence can feel risky—no one wants to come across as arrogant. But minimizing your certainty can make you appear hesitant or unsure, even if you’re fully capable.

The result?

Your ideas may be dismissed, or your competence questioned.

Actionable Insight: Embrace confidence.

Frame your ideas assertively while inviting collaboration.

Say…

“I’m confident this approach will work, but I’d love to hear your thoughts.” 

This builds trust while maintaining authority.

3. Asking Questions: Turning Curiosity Into Strength

Asking questions shows curiosity and helps gather valuable insights.

But in some environments, this can be misinterpreted as ignorance. Worse, if questions are discouraged, your willingness to ask could bury essential knowledge.

Actionable Insight: Ask strategically.

Preface your question with context…

“To ensure we’re aligned, can you clarify…?” 

This shows you’re informed and thoughtful rather than unprepared.

Your voice is your most valuable asset.

By balancing authenticity with strategic adjustments, you can ensure your message resonates and elevates your career.

Takeaway:

Early in my career, I take pride in being collaborative and modest.

I thought these traits made me a great team player—and they did—but they also led to a surprising problem.

In my annual performance review, I listened as my manager praised the team’s success.

The problem?

She didn’t mention my contributions.

I had poured months of effort into solving the toughest challenges, yet my work blended into the background.

At first, I blamed my boss for overlooking me. But the more I thought about it, the clearer it became:

I wasn’t advocating for myself:

• I always said “we.” 

• I avoided sounding too confident.

• I hesitated to ask clarifying questions for fear of appearing uninformed.

I realized I could stay authentic and be more strategic.

I started owning my achievements, framing my ideas assertively, and asking thoughtful questions to lead conversations.

The result?

My voice—and my impact—started to resonate.

And, that’s when the trajectory of my career changed.

Do you want to grow your career and income fast?

Own your voice.

Own your career.

ICYMI: Links to recent issues

📢 Lead With Stories, Not Statements: Why storytelling bridges teams and ignites purpose.

💱 The Productivity Hack Gurus Don't Teach: Why shame, fear, and guilt are killing your productivity.

⁉️ Is It Time for a Career Change? Here’s how to know and what to do.

I appreciate your feedback! It will help shape the future issues of CAREER LADDER!

If you’re curious why I want you to succeed in half the time, here’s why.

To your success,

Dr. Lex ✍️

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