In an ideal world, every person’s voice would be valued on its own merit, whether you are at work, in a hospital, at school, or dealing with public services. Yet, so often, people find their concerns are only addressed when they bring in a union rep, a health advocate, or someone else to “speak for them.” Why should it take another person’s presence for us to be heard and respected? We shouldn’t need a representative to be taken seriously, everyone deserves to be listened to, understood, and treated fairly, no matter who is at their side.
We Shouldn’t Need A Representative To Be Taken Seriously
While union reps and advocates play an important role in many areas of life, protecting rights, ensuring fair treatment, or guiding us through complex systems, their presence should not be a requirement for respect. Every individual deserves to have their voice heard, their concerns addressed, and their ideas valued, whether or not they have formal representation. Relying on a third party to gain credibility sends the wrong message: that individuals are not worthy of full consideration on their own.
True respect is universal. It should be given as a matter of course, not only when someone else is watching. We should not have to “borrow” authority to be taken seriously. Instead, our communities and institutions should create a culture where everyone’s voice is valued, and every person feels empowered to represent themselves with confidence.
Why Are We Taken More Seriously With An Advocate?
Despite what should be the norm, it is common for concerns to gain more traction when a union rep, health advocate, or other representative is present. According to Citizens Advice, having a representative can give people the confidence to raise issues they might otherwise keep quiet about. Their presence often prompts professionals, whether managers, doctors, or officials, to pay closer attention, follow procedures more carefully, and document conversations more thoroughly.
- Perceived Authority: Reps and advocates bring experience and knowledge, which can prompt those in power to act.
- Power in Numbers: The psychological impact of having someone “on your side” can shift the tone of any conversation.
- Procedural Safeguards: With a rep present, conversations are more likely to be “on the record,” encouraging greater care.
While these factors can help protect people, they also reinforce the idea that our own voices are not enough, a belief that can undermine confidence and dignity in any setting.
Delays And Unnecessary Loopholes: When Waiting For A Spokesperson
Too often, problems that could be resolved quickly are left to linger simply because an individual’s voice is not given due weight. Rather than addressing concerns at the outset, organisations and institutions may wait until a spokesperson or advocate is involved before taking action. This creates unnecessary loops, extra meetings, formal processes, and added paperwork, which not only delay solutions but also increase frustration for everyone involved. If people were taken seriously from the start, many issues could be resolved directly, efficiently, and with far less stress.
The Value Of Voicing Yourself
It is important to remember that you deserve respect and serious consideration in your own right. Developing your own communication skills is key to making your voice heard and respected, wherever you are. When you speak up with clarity, confidence, and assertiveness, you show that you take yourself seriously and invite others to do the same.
If you want to strengthen your presence and credibility in group settings, it helps to focus on how to express your opinions in meetings, using strategies that help you stay calm and persuasive even under pressure.
How To Represent Yourself With Confidence
- Prepare Your Points: Know what you want to say and the outcome you hope for. Write down key facts or examples.
- Speak Clearly and Directly: Use straightforward language and avoid apologising for raising concerns.
- Maintain Composure: If emotions run high, pause, breathe, and return to your main points.
- Ask for Clarification: If you do not understand a response, ask for it to be explained again.
- Follow Up in Writing: After important conversations, summarise what was discussed and agreed, this shows professionalism and keeps a record.
Changing Culture Everywhere
Whether in the workplace, at the doctor’s surgery, in schools, or with public services, everyone should strive to create environments where every voice is valued, not just those backed by formal representatives. The reality is that, right now, many people feel their voices are powerless on their own, prompting them to seek out a spokesperson or advocate simply to be taken seriously. This reliance is a symptom of a deeper issue: a lack of respect and responsiveness towards individuals, regardless of their status or support.
This means encouraging open dialogue, responding to concerns promptly, and training leaders and professionals to listen without defensiveness. As highlighted by Acas, communities and organisations with strong communication and mutual respect see fewer conflicts and higher morale even when difficult issues arise.
Real-Life Example: Standing Up For Yourself
Imagine a parent in a school meeting, a patient in a hospital, or a citizen at a council office. Instead of waiting until things escalate, they prepare their concerns, request a conversation, and present their case calmly and clearly. The professional listens, asks questions, and together they find a solution. No advocate was needed, just clear, confident communication and mutual respect.
Quick Tips for Everyday Advocacy
- Practise speaking up in low-stakes situations to build confidence
- Use “I” statements to own your perspective (e.g., “I feel,” “I noticed”)
- Listen actively to others and acknowledge their points
- Remember that your concerns are valid, even if you are the only one raising them
The Speaking Voices Approach
At Speaking Voices, we believe everyone deserves to be heard whether you have an advocate by your side or not. We can help you build the skills to advocate for yourself, blending voice training, assertiveness, and real-world scenarios from all walks of life. Our coaching empowers you to represent yourself with clarity, confidence, and calm so you are never undermined or overlooked.
Ready to Be Taken Seriously Wherever You Are?
If you want to strengthen your communication and become your own best advocate, book a call with me to discuss your personalised communication course. Let’s help you speak up, stand tall, and be taken seriously every time, everywhere.