How To Be an Effective Advocate

 

Image description: A photo of paper hands in various colors reaching towards a paper earth. The word “ADVOCATE” is in black letters across the image. 

As defined, an advocate is “a person who publicly supports… a particular cause”. But to me being an advocate means so much more than that. An advocate is someone who stands up for the things they believe in, even when no one is there to stand beside them. A good advocate is courageous, strong, and wise and is willing to tackle every obstacle with grace.

Advocates make space for others to shine. They put others first and create opportunities for those around them to succeed. An advocate is the type of person who cares so much about something that they are willing to give everything for it. Once an advocate finds the thing that lights their heart on fire, they fight to see the smallest step in the right direction.

Advocates are not only leaders but they are change makers. They open doors, break down barriers and work to ensure that everyone is both seen and heard. Being an effective advocate is a goal that many people, including myself strive for. So, here are four simple steps to kick start your journey to becoming an effective advocate. 

1. Be Knowledgeable

Once you find that cause you’re passionate about, do your research. Take time to learn as much as you can. Ensure that you find sources from all of the view points so that you can become well informed. The more information you know, the more information you will have to share with the people you encounter. Being knowledgeable shows others that you are very passionate about your cause and it also makes you available to answer any and all questions. 

2. Listen

Advocates have to be exceptional listeners. As an advocate you represent a community of people who also support your cause. It is important that you take time to listen to the ideas and beliefs of the people around you. This will help you to tailor the work you are doing to create the largest impact in the community. Advocates are constantly taking risks, when taking these risks it is crucial to get feedback from your community. Listening to feedback allows you to grow as an advocate and a person. 

3. Make Connections 

Connections are a very powerful part of advocacy work. When you are able to establish connections with a variety of people, you then have a large network of people that stand behind you and your cause. More people that believe in what you are doing will allow you to evoke greater change. However, at the end of the day it is the connections that you make and the community that you fall in love with that fulfill you. 

4. Be Courageous 

Courage is not in the absence of fear, but in the presence of a greater one. A fear of a future without change. Stand up for your cause because if you don't, who will? You must be courageous because being an advocate isn’t easy, but it is worth it. 

In Friendship, 

Izabel Korbet

YLC Member, New Hampshire