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Why We Should Stop Telling Employees To Advocate for Themselves

Kristy Lilas, VP of DIB at GoDaddy, outlines best practices for inclusion that don’t rely on self-advocacy.

Why We Should Stop Telling Employees To Advocate for Themselves

Kristy Lilas, VP of DIB at GoDaddy, outlines best practices for inclusion that don’t rely on self-advocacy.

Published 05-15-24

Submitted by GoDaddy

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One diversity, inclusion and belonging exec paints a different picture of inclusion: One where marginalized people don’t have to shoulder the burden of vying for management’s attention alone. Nicola Katie via Getty Images

Originally published on HR Dive

By Kristy Lilas

Kristy Lilas is vice president of diversity, inclusion and belonging at GoDaddy.

In an era that champions self-advocacy as a pathway to professional success, it is important to recognize that it can only go so far, especially for people from marginalized communities. For individuals facing biases — both unconscious and systemic — the expectation of self-advocacy can pose unique challenges and create complex team dynamics.

Personal biases and institutional barriers hinder the ability of these employees to navigate the often-suggested pathways of self-promotion. In fact, some studies have shown that Black employees are penalized for self-promotion versus people with other identities. Recognizing these disparities is the first step in creating a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all.

Advocacy means championing oneself and others
At work, this often involves finding opportunities to educate others and develop one’s capabilities. But it can also vary from person to person: For some, meaningful advocacy is volunteering for or being recommended for stretch projects. For others, it might mean speaking up or creating space for their voice.

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Permission granted by Kristy Lilas, Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at GoDaddy

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Read the full article on HR Dive here

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Empowering through Equity & Inclusion: A GoDaddy Series – At GoDaddy, we make apps and services that our worldwide community of entrepreneurs can relate to and that serve our mission of empowering entrepreneurs everywhere, making opportunity more inclusive for all. Our people and culture reflect and celebrate that sense of diversity and inclusion in ideas, experiences and perspectives. But we know that’s not enough to build true equity and belonging in our communities. That’s why we prioritize integrating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging principles into the core of how we work every day. This article is part of the Empowering through Equity & Inclusion thought leadership series that reflects on how organizations can strive for more equitable and inclusive workplaces – as well as communities.

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GoDaddy is empowering everyday entrepreneurs around the world by providing all of the help and tools to succeed online. GoDaddy is the place people come to name their idea, build a professional website, attract customers, sell their products and services, and manage their work. Our mission is to give our customers the tools, insights and the people to transform their ideas and personal initiative into success. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.

About GoDaddy for Good

GoDaddy focuses on making opportunity more inclusive for all in the communities where we work, live and play across the globe. We rally behind inclusive entrepreneurship and other critical local needs that empower people to succeed through philanthropic and in-kind donations, volunteerism, strategic partnerships and advocacy.

Empower by GoDaddy 

Empower by GoDaddy is GoDaddy's global community and philanthropic program equipping entrepreneurs in underserved communities with training, tools and peer networks to accelerate their journeys. GoDaddy rallies behind entrepreneurs in underserved communities by building their confidence and skills to strengthen their small business’ digital presence.  Entrepreneurs engage in customized learning experiences, work 1-1 with GoDaddy volunteer coaches and local mentors, and gain access to wrap-around services, in-kind products and networks boosting their small businesses success.

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