Why Advocates Are Key to Underdog Success
How Support Networks Transform Struggle into Strategy
The Myth of the Self-Made Underdog
In American culture, there’s a myth we love to repeat: the lone wolf underdog who claws their way to the top with no help. But The Underdog Curve dismantles that fantasy with clarity.
The truth is, no underdog becomes successful alone. Real underdog success happens when someone chooses to share their story, build meaningful connections, and attract the right kind of support — especially from advocates.
In George Place’s words, “Relationships are vital to our survival.” Our success isn’t just about talent or effort — it’s also about the support we invite into our journey..
What Makes an Advocate Different?
Not all supporters are created equal. In the book, Place outlines four types of support: sympathy, empathy, attunement, and advocacy. The first three are valuable, but it’s the fourth that moves the needle. Advocates don’t just feel for you — they take action on your behalf.
A true underdog advocate:
- Understands your unique disadvantage
- Respects your personal story
- Sees potential before it’s validated
- Is willing to take personal or professional risks to support you
- Acts out of aligned purpose — not pity or personal gain.
These people don’t appear randomly. They show up when you’ve done the hard work of becoming a credible contender.
The Underdog Equation: Why You Must Be Credible First
Place offers a powerful insight: “The active support that only true advocates can provide” is earned — not given. There’s an emotional economy at play, and the currency is credibility.
To receive real advocacy, underdogs must:
- Share their story authentically
- Build trust through vulnerability
- Show differentiated performance — even when no one’s watching
- Demonstrate readiness to step into opportunities
This credibility creates a compelling value exchange: advocates feel proud to support you, because your story and your perseverance validate their belief in you. In return, you get the precise type of support you need. Win-win.
Why Vulnerability Is a Power Move
In a standout chapter on intentional relationships, George recounts how one of his strongest professional advocates didn’t emerge until he took a leap of faith and became vulnerable.
That relationship didn’t cost him a dollar — just the courage to be honest, open, and present. And it yielded years of success, collaboration, and transformation.
Underdogs often resist this kind of openness — especially those with trauma. But here’s the irony: the very act of revealing your story is what attracts the advocates you need most.
“Accepting support” is framed as a rare and powerful skill. For many—especially those who’ve been hurt in the past—accepting help feels unsafe. But for underdogs, it’s essential.
Building a Real Support Network
So how do you build a network that includes advocates — not just cheerleaders?
1. Start With Intentional Relationships
Relationships don’t grow by accident. They start when you initiate — by being transparent, showing strong character, and making space for real connection. Place calls this "intentional relationships," and he considers it foundational to long-term success.
2. Tell Your Story — Strategically
You don’t need to overshare or trauma-dump. You need to learn how to tell your story in a way that makes people want to help. The importance of crafting a version of your story that’s both authentic and empowering.
3. Know What You’re Asking For
Advocates want to help — but they need clarity. Are you looking for introductions, mentorship, belief, or opportunity? Being clear about your needs makes it easier for the right people to step forward.
Advocate Stories from The Underdog Curve
One of the most poignant moments in the Underdog Curve is when the Page family, who welcomed George into their lives and treated him like family.
Their belief and support helped shape his future and gave him access to emotional and practical support that became pivotal in his personal evolution.
Another example comes from Place’s corporate life. He shares how opening up to his high-powered boss— despite his fear — led to years of mutual trust, strategic partnership, and business success.
That advocate didn’t need anything from him. He simply recognized a contender — and stepped in to help.
The Real Definition of Underdog Success
Underdog achievement isn’t about proving people wrong — it’s about proving yourself right. That process demands more than personal hustle. It requires relational strategy.
You become successful not just by working harder — but by creating a context where others want to invest in your success.
The most successful underdogs understand the three parts of the underdog equation:
Your story + Your performance + Your relationships. You can’t skip any of them.
Be the Kind of Person Others Want to Fight For
There is a market for underdogs — but only if you show up prepared and ready to compete. That means becoming credible, open, and willing to receive support when it’s offered.
You don’t need hundreds of advocates. You need one or two who believe deeply in who you are — and are willing to back that belief with action. If you’re an underdog, don’t chase success alone.
Build relationships that move you forward. Become the kind of contender that advocates can’t ignore. And when support comes? Let it in. You’ve earned it.