Since President Joe Biden endorsed VP Kamala Harris to run for president, TikTok has blown up with fun videos of her, earning #KamalaHarris 4 billion views. Gen-Z is especially obsessed with her authenticity and confidence, which set a powerful example for young professionals on how to stand up for themselves.
To help your readers set better boundaries at work, Avery Morgan, Chief communication officer at EduBirdie, an all-in-one platform for student needs, shared 5 lessons for Gen-Z to learn from Kamala Harris to become more assertive and stand up for themselves.
1. Be assertive in communication
Follow Harris’s simple and direct communication approach. For example, during the Vice Presidential debate with Mike Pence, she responded firmly to interruptions by saying, “Mr. Vice President, I’m speaking.” Use similar phrases to assert your presence in conversations. Set limits with courteous but firm words to avoid being interrupted or silenced.
2. Advocate for yourself
Harris frequently talks about standing up for what’s right. In her statement on women’s rights, she stated, “We will not be silenced, and we will not be deterred.” Remember to advocate for your demands and rights in the workplace. If you feel overloaded, speak up about your workload, negotiate deadlines, and delegate chores.
3. Respond to false expectations
And now for the already well-known saying, “You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?” She used to challenge wrong assumptions. Use this attitude to resist unreasonable requests or expectations at work, and remind your coworkers that before they ask you to do something, they must scan the room for context and determine if you can assist them.
4. Set specific work-life hours
Advocate for policies that promote work-life balance, similar to Harris’ focus on systemic change. In her Labor Day speech, she underlined the significance of fair working conditions, saying, “We need to build an economy that works for working people.” Communicate your availability and off-hours to ensure coworkers respect your time.
5. Emphasize equality and respect
Harris’s talks often highlight the value of respect and equality. In her acceptance speech as Vice President, she stated, “I may be the first, but I will not be the last.” Demand a work environment that values mutual respect and honors everyone’s limits. Address any disrespect or boundary violations assertively but politely.
