Self-Promotion: How To Do It Right

If you are anything like me, self-promotion is hard. Why is it that we can be the biggest cheerleaders for our friends and family, but when it comes to ourselves we fall flat? I have always believed that hard work pays off. And while I think that’s true, it doesn’t pay off (at least not quickly) when no one knows about the great things you are doing. My struggle with self-promotion has definitely held me back in life. It’s a harsh reality when you realize that you are your biggest hurdle to jump over on your path to success. But once you see that, you’re back in control.

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

I have been working for my current company for three years. Two years ago I was promoted to the position I still hold. In my company structure there are different levels within your position. When you are promoted you have a higher number after your title and more responsibility, but the overall role of the position stays the same. Since I am in sales, my quarterly and year-end sales are the biggest determining factor in my advancement within the role. In my role I work under another sales person, it’s a combination of assistant and apprentice so that I am able to learn.

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Over the last six months I have become frustrated with my lack of advancement. When I spoke to my supervisor about some of my concerns I was surprised at how little he knew about my successes over the past year. But then I realized, how would he know? I haven’t been telling him and no one else is going to. So I made a conscious decision that I was going to be in charge of my future and not leave it up to anyone else.

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Self-promotion is necessary but there are a few things to keep in mind, especially in a professional environment.

Master the #humblebrag

There is a difference between self-promotion and bragging. It’s okay to brag on the amazing things you’ve accomplished but know your limits. Keep it short and simple – like a highlight reel. For example, I send an email to my supervisor at the end of a great week sharing my successes. It’s a quick email with my sales for the week and maybe a follow-up on how I solved a customer issue. When you come from the place of wanting to celebrate successes, it’s easy for others to be excited for you.

Give Credit Where Credit is Due

Most likely you aren’t the only one doing amazing things on your team. So give a shout out to the people around you who support you and make it possible for you to succeed. Brag on other people and then brag on yourself. When you make it about the overall team but still share individual credit, then it’s a win-win. Your supervisors will recognize your generosity to your team mates and applaud you for it. Helping someone else shine does not dim your own sparkle.

Track Your Successes

It’s a good idea to keep track of your successes over a time period. This way when it comes time to sit down for a review you have a timeline to refer back to. Create a file to save emails to, or make a spreadsheet with analytics, anyway to track your progress.

Know Your Worth

We all have something to offer and each person brings something unique to the table. Sometimes it just takes a little reminder that this is true. Give yourself permission to brag. It can be uncomfortable to talk about yourself and your accomplishments, trust me it is for me. But you deserve recognition for all of your hard work. So when it comes time for a raise or promotion, or a different opportunity, know your worth.

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Four ways to make "self-promotion" easier on Waketon Road

Shop the Look:

Beret: Nordstrom, Coat: Zara (similar), Bag: Cuyana, Sweater: Lou & Grey, Jeans: Old Navy, Shoes: Everlane

10 Comments

  1. Taylor wrote:

    I really struggle with self-promotion as well. I would definitely say that I am my own biggest obstacle when it comes to growth and advancement in any aspect. I love these ideas to get past that. Thanks Bryn!

    Posted 1.8.18
  2. Caroline wrote:

    I love this post Bryn! Especially the idea of sending a week end email to summarize what you’ve done – but in a way that shows off your successes!

    xx Caroline
    http://www.whenwear.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  3. Molly wrote:

    This came at the perfect time! I’m looking for ways to move up in my career at work and these are fantastic tips and definitely do-able in terms of implementing. Sounds like you’re on the right track, too!!

    http://www.mollyonthemoveblog.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  4. Lauren wrote:

    Loved this post! Everything you said is so true. Self-promotion is hard to do but it’s one of the biggest hurdles to our own success. Also, loving this chic look!
    Lauren | Midtown Magnolia
    http://www.midtownmagnoliablog.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  5. Alexa wrote:

    LOVEEE this post! I needed this today!

    http://alexamjohnson.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  6. Yes Bryn! Go get it lady – you work so hard, you deserve to be recognised for that work!

    Rebecca
    xx
    http://www.peppermintdolly.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  7. Dana wrote:

    I struggle with this at my day job too because I’m always getting down on myself. I always think my bosses are so much smarter than me and accomplish a lot more – luckily, they’re my biggest supporters, so it’s just myself getting in my own way. These tips are so helpful!

    The Champagne Edit

    Posted 1.8.18
  8. Samantha wrote:

    Everything about this post is perfect! I think self-promotion is especially tough for women since we’re naturally more reserved, but your next steps are really helpful. Plus, I’ve found that, generally, people are drawn to interesting people. If you have a key accomplishment, others love hearing about it!

    GET IT BRYN! πŸ™‚

    xo Sam
    http://www.the-current-classic.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  9. Great post! It’s always awkward to brag on accomplishments…but the humble brag is totally different! Thanks for sharing your thoughts πŸ™‚

    Katherine | http://www.oneswainkycouple.com

    Posted 1.8.18
  10. Rach wrote:

    Good for you!! It is definitely an awkward feeling talking about your accomplishments, but no one knows you best but yourself! Wishing you luck!

    http://www.rdsobsessions.com

    Posted 1.8.18

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