The art of self-promotion

Growing up, I often heard certain sentiments repeated over and over. Children were there to be seen and not heard, modesty and humility were the most important maxims and on and on. These ‘rules’ extend to the workplace where we carry around the perceptions that ‘I’ is less important than ‘we’ and that it is in bad taste to toot your own horn, extol your accomplishments or heaven forbid, brag.

But amidst these kind of beliefs, it is also important to remember one of the most powerful words I have ever heard by Marianne Wilson: “…our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?” Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.”

As much of a mouthful as it is, it goes to the heart of who we are. And right along with it, we should dispel the fake modesty that we display because we think it is what society expects of us. How then, do you brag, especially in the workplace without alienating other people?

Tell a story

Speak about your achievements, career growth and awards in a conversational manner that invites comment as opposed to making it a ‘me’ monologue. Talk about how what you do utilises x,y,z skills and how you change people’s lives or organisational bottom lines. An example is: “My job gives me the opportunity to bring out the best in people through mentoring, coupled with my extensive experience in the sector.”

Create an online presence

There are a lot of things on the Internet that you cannot control. However, you can ensure you make the biggest impact on what is within your control. Use LinkedIn, Twitter and other professional social media to brag about your accomplishments.

Tips

• If you don’t figure out the art of self-promotion, no one will do it for you. Your achievements are things for you to be proud of, and to talk about with passion.

• Weave in your extensive skill and experiences with stories or anecdotes that make it more interesting and relevant for the person you’re speaking to.

Photo: www.forharriet.com