Success in any field isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who knows what you can do. The most powerful form of professional advancement often happens when you’re not even in the room, through the words of others who believe in your work and potential. But how do you cultivate these champions authentically, without coming across as self-promoting or manipulative?
The key lies in understanding that true advocacy isn’t built through networking tricks or strategic favors—it’s earned through consistent value creation and genuine relationship building. Try one or more of these ideas to develop a network of supporters who will naturally become your advocates – even when (perhaps, especially when) you’re not in the room:
- Become Known for Your Unique Perspective. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, develop and share a distinct point of view in your field. When you consistently demonstrate deep thinking about specific challenges or opportunities in your industry, people remember you for it. Share your insights through thoughtful contributions in meetings, well-crafted articles, or engaging presentations. The goal isn’t to be controversial, but to be memorable for adding meaningful perspective to important conversations.
- Create Value Before Asking for Anything. The most effective way to build champions is to help solve other people’s problems first. Pay attention to the challenges your colleagues and industry peers face. Then, without expecting anything in return, offer genuine assistance—whether that’s making a valuable introduction, sharing relevant research, or pitching in on a project. When you consistently demonstrate that you’re focused on creating value for others, people naturally want to reciprocate by advocating for you.
- Master the Art of Follow-Through. In a world where many people overpromise and underdeliver, become known as someone who consistently follows through. When you say you’ll send that article, make that introduction, or complete that task—do it promptly and thoroughly. This reliability builds trust and gives people confidence in recommending you to others. They know their own reputation won’t be damaged by vouching for you.
- Make Others Feel Valued. Often, it’s the small, thoughtful gestures that leave the strongest impressions. Take the time to call people by their names, greet them warmly, and show genuine excitement when you see them. Offer sincere compliments and acknowledge the connections you share. Send handwritten notes of appreciation, share articles or book recommendations that made you think of them, or simply make a call to check on their well-being. These seemingly small acts of consideration demonstrate that you value people as individuals, not just professional connections.
- Document and Share Your Successes—Without Bragging. Keep a running record of your project outcomes, positive feedback, and concrete results. When appropriate opportunities arise, share these successes in a way that highlights the collaborative effort and learning opportunities rather than just your personal achievement. This gives your potential champions specific examples they can reference when speaking about your capabilities to others.
The most powerful professional advocacy happens organically, through a network of people who genuinely believe in your value and potential. By focusing on creating real value, maintaining authentic relationships, and consistently delivering quality work, you build a foundation that makes it natural for others to speak positively about you—even when you’re not in the room.
Remember, the goal isn’t to create a fan club, but to build genuine professional relationships where mutual support and advocacy flow naturally from shared values and demonstrated capabilities. When you focus on being truly helpful and consistently excellent in your work, you won’t have to ask for champions—they’ll emerge naturally from the value you create.
What’s the first action you will take to build your own coalition of champions?
Happy Networking!