How to create and own your seat at the table
Stop doubting yourself. Start showing up confidently.
UP NEXT spotlights the perspectives of IPR NEXT members as they drive the future of communications with purpose and impact. Learn more about IPR NEXT, the Institute for Public Relations’ membership community for emerging leaders.
Kayla Marrero is external communication and impact specialist at Giant Food.
Two years ago, I stayed quiet in rooms with seasoned leaders, doubting the value I brought and avoiding being seen. I believed those with more experience had nothing to learn from me, but I was wrong.
Today, I show up confidently, share my perspective and take up space because I have done the internal work to understand who I am and the value I add.
If you are trying to claim or create your seat at a table, check out the following strategies to build your confidence and credibility in your career.
- Claim your seat: Look inward
Before entering a room, you must believe you belong there. That confidence is built by understanding who you are as both a professional and an individual.
Start by asking yourself key questions: Who am I? What motivates my work? What makes my perspective different from others? What do I want to be known for? The clearer these answers become, the more confident you will feel taking up space.
2. Add to the table: Contribute early
To build credibility before you sit at the table, train yourself to anticipate the needs of the leaders in the room. You can do this by bringing insights, offering perspective on timely conversation or offering a helping hand.
Showing how you think strategically and your willingness to learn demonstrates that you want to be involved in important conversations. This mindset demonstrates initiative and makes clear why your perspective belongs in the room.
3. Speak at the table: Participate in the conversation
Spend at least 30 minutes preparing before entering the room by understanding who will be there and what may be discussed. Research the participants, review the agenda if available, prepare key points and create five to six thoughtful questions.
Being informed builds confidence and allows you to engage meaningfully. It is not just about being heard, but about adding value with insights that can shape the discussion.
4. Choose your table: Choose your environment
Once you have the confidence to contribute at the table, the next step is seeking or creating the spaces you want to be in. Start by identifying professionals you admire and scheduling time to learn from them, which can place you on their radar and open doors to new networks.
Finding your table also means sharing your perspective through platforms like LinkedIn or op-eds to build credibility. Doing so can unlock opportunities and access to spaces you may not have found otherwise.
Owning your seat at the table means recognizing that learning is not hierarchical. Instead, it’s a shared experience among everyone. This is a mindset I continue to develop, but one thing remains true: If you are at the table, it is because your voice, insight and contribution belong there.
