Debate It, Nail It, Lead It!

Ever wish you had a superpower that could skyrocket your career?

Well, here’s a surprising one— Debating! Yep, learning how to argue (the right way) might just be your golden ticket to leadership. Research shows that people who master the art of debate are more likely to land leadership roles. Why? Because it teaches you how to make your point without sounding like a know-it-all at family dinners.

How Debate Training Gives You an Edge

A recent study discovered that employees trained in debating have a better shot at getting promoted. It turns out that knowing how to present your ideas clearly and confidently makes people take you more seriously. (Who knew, right?)

Companies pour millions into leadership programs, but let’s be honest—many of them are just fancy PowerPoints and awkward icebreakers. This study, however, gives us actual proof that debate skills help people climb the corporate ladder. So, instead of yet another “team-building retreat,” maybe just sign up for a debate class?

The Experiments That Prove It

To test this, researchers ran two experiments. In one, almost 500 employees at a major company were split into two groups—half got nine weeks of debate training, and the other half continued their normal work routine (aka, endless emails and too many meetings). Fast forward 18 months, and those with debate training were 12% more likely to have been promoted.

The second experiment involved almost 1,000 university students. Again, some got debate training, others got different training, and some got nothing (poor souls). The result? The debate-trained folks were way more likely to emerge as leaders in group settings. And no, it wasn’t because they talked over everyone—it was because they spoke with confidence and clarity.

Assertiveness vs. Aggressiveness

Now, before you start interrupting every meeting with a dramatic rebuttal, let’s clear something up—assertiveness is not the same as aggressiveness. It’s about making your point in a way that’s confident but respectful. Think smooth and persuasive, not loud and obnoxious. No need to channel your inner courtroom drama—just learn how to express your ideas effectively.

What This Means for Companies

Here’s the kicker—debate training works across the board, no matter your background, gender, or experience. But it also raises a big question: should companies rethink what makes a great leader? Assertiveness is key, but what about the quiet geniuses who lead with wisdom and collaboration?

At the end of the day, knowing how to communicate like a pro can give you a serious career boost. So, if you want to move up, maybe skip that motivational seminar and sign up for a debate class instead. Who knew arguing could be so good for your career?