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Have you ever noticed how people seem to find it rewarding to talk about themselves in social situations?
They will expound on their opinions, thoughts and experiences, even if no one seems to be listening. Then why do people, and especially women, find it so hard to self-promote in business situations they benefit from?
There isn’t a single answer to that question. Research findings show that we find it easier to brag about the accomplishments of our friends and relations than our own.
It is time to move past our shyness, embrace our accomplishments, and shout them to the world. We just need to be careful about how we do it.
Self-promotion is a delicate balance between being honest about your capabilities and being a braggart. To help you walk that thin line, here is some advice:
Take the “Self” out of “Self-Promotion”
You can begin by taking yourself out of the equation. It is your work, not yourself that you are talking about. Ask yourself what some of your major accomplishments are. How have you had the greatest impact on the businesses you've been associated with? How have you contributed to positive outcomes in the projects you've worked on?
Make Lists
Go through your resume and write down the things you are proudest of at each stage in your career. Place each item into a category - sales, marketing, operations, finance and management - so you will be able to pull up appropriate items at will. Document your successes so you can back up your value with facts.
For example, you increased sales by X percent, or you lowered employee turnover in your department by X much. If you are a business owner, list the companies you have started, the problems you have overcome, and your greatest achievements.
Tell Your Story
Weave the items on your list into a memorable story about your career. Use anecdotes that illustrate patterns highlighting your greatest strengths. Throwing data and figures around as if it’s a financial report will cause your audience to lose interest very quickly.
Remember two important points: be engaging, and keep your audience’s attention. If you notice your audience drifting away, it is time to either spice up the tale or bring it to a close.
Acknowledge Others
To avoid sounding like a braggart or overly self-centered, give credit where it is due and don’t forget the people who helped you along the way. The teams that worked hard for you, the mentor who guided you down the right path, and the manager who provided the resources you needed to succeed are excellent examples of people to keep in mind.
Practice Telling the Tale
Rehearse telling your story until it flows smoothly and sounds natural. Ask friends to listen to you and give their feedback. You might find a new angle or realize that you need to improve certain areas.
Be Gracious
The best reply to a compliment is a simple “thank you.” If your audience wants to hear more, they will ask. Don’t take their flattery as an invitation to keep talking about yourself.
Self-promotion done right could lead to faster promotions, more job opportunities, and new career paths. Do it improperly and doors may close in your face. Practice your manners. Rehearse your story. Get out of your own way, and let your talent shine.
They will expound on their opinions, thoughts and experiences, even if no one seems to be listening. Then why do people, and especially women, find it so hard to self-promote in business situations they benefit from?
There isn’t a single answer to that question. Research findings show that we find it easier to brag about the accomplishments of our friends and relations than our own.
It is time to move past our shyness, embrace our accomplishments, and shout them to the world. We just need to be careful about how we do it.
Self-promotion is a delicate balance between being honest about your capabilities and being a braggart. To help you walk that thin line, here is some advice:
Take the “Self” out of “Self-Promotion”
You can begin by taking yourself out of the equation. It is your work, not yourself that you are talking about. Ask yourself what some of your major accomplishments are. How have you had the greatest impact on the businesses you've been associated with? How have you contributed to positive outcomes in the projects you've worked on?
Make Lists
Go through your resume and write down the things you are proudest of at each stage in your career. Place each item into a category - sales, marketing, operations, finance and management - so you will be able to pull up appropriate items at will. Document your successes so you can back up your value with facts.
For example, you increased sales by X percent, or you lowered employee turnover in your department by X much. If you are a business owner, list the companies you have started, the problems you have overcome, and your greatest achievements.
Tell Your Story
Weave the items on your list into a memorable story about your career. Use anecdotes that illustrate patterns highlighting your greatest strengths. Throwing data and figures around as if it’s a financial report will cause your audience to lose interest very quickly.
Remember two important points: be engaging, and keep your audience’s attention. If you notice your audience drifting away, it is time to either spice up the tale or bring it to a close.
Acknowledge Others
To avoid sounding like a braggart or overly self-centered, give credit where it is due and don’t forget the people who helped you along the way. The teams that worked hard for you, the mentor who guided you down the right path, and the manager who provided the resources you needed to succeed are excellent examples of people to keep in mind.
Practice Telling the Tale
Rehearse telling your story until it flows smoothly and sounds natural. Ask friends to listen to you and give their feedback. You might find a new angle or realize that you need to improve certain areas.
Be Gracious
The best reply to a compliment is a simple “thank you.” If your audience wants to hear more, they will ask. Don’t take their flattery as an invitation to keep talking about yourself.
Self-promotion done right could lead to faster promotions, more job opportunities, and new career paths. Do it improperly and doors may close in your face. Practice your manners. Rehearse your story. Get out of your own way, and let your talent shine.
