We hear a lot around the need to advocate for ourselves at work. Sticking up for ourselves. Asking for what we want. Sharing our voice. We call it self-advocacy.

For many reasons, someone may find it challenging to self-advocate. Reasons may be the way they grew up, where they grew up, their belief systems, the corporate culture they are working in, self-limiting beliefs, imposter syndrome, a core value of humility. So many elements may hold us back from being comfortable with self-advocacy.

The flip side of self-advocacy is advocating for others—BOOSTING each other in the workplace. Boosting means helping someone improve or become more successful. If we were all better at boosting each other, wouldn’t the need for self-advocacy be minimized?

The truth is we need both sides: self-advocacy and boosting others. The Boosting 4-Box shares how to think about ways to advocate for others—publicly and privately—gently and strongly.

• Check in periodically to see what the person needs and wants.

• Share your relationships and information that helps someone meet a goal.

• Invite someone to a forum they may not be aware of—include them in a discussion so they can learn and gain exposure.

• Give a public thank you or forward on a complimentary email.

• Take a chance by involving a new person in your project.

• Care enough to give feedback earnestly and timely.

• Create space for someone who struggles being heard. Pull them in. “Corey, what do you think?”

• Sponsor someone publicly with your political capital and influence.

What will you do differently on Monday to boost someone in the workplace? Your boosting actions make a meaningful impact and signal your leadership style.