Talk Yourself Up: The Key to Professional Bragging

P.T. Barnum said, "Without promotion, something terrible happens - nothing."

When it comes to your career, Mr. Barnum is right. Sometimes being good at your job simply isn't enough. If you don't get recognition for your work, you won't reap the rewards of a job well done. But promoting your own successes can sometimes be uncomfortable. Take Barnum's words to heart: self-promotion can mean the difference between professional success and, well, nothing.

Brand X

Think of yourself as a brand. What are your strengths and weaknesses? You can probably describe the company's product or service in your sleep. What about your product-your career. Do you know your successes as well? Keep a running list, whether in your head or on paper. If you have trouble getting started check out professional bragging expert Peggy Klaus' website. It has a questionnaire that can help you create a "brag bag."

Talk Up the Group

Be vocal about the successes of your team; even if you play the most pivotal role. Being viewed as part of a successful team will still be a win for you. For those new to the idea of professional bragging, this can be an easy baby step towards getting in the game.

Get in the Act

You cannot promote a wallflower. You will have to get noticed to get recognized. Speak up in meetings, offer suggestions, volunteer for committees. Be the go-to person when there is a problem that needs solving. This will promote your overall image and help you get on the radar of the people that matter. They have their own careers to concentrate on, what you are doing with yours may not be top of mind. Get in their line of vision, so they can't miss you.

Look Outside

Self-promotion is not limited to the four walls of your office. Your business associates, vendors, even competitors are great avenues to build your reputation. You never know where your next opportunity will come from.

Study Your Surroundings

Successful self-promotion tactics may differ from company to company. Look at others in your organization who are being recognized for their wins. Do they talk openly, even boastfully, about what they've done? Is it their boss that has ‘promoted' their accomplishments? Your environment will help dictate what is acceptable self-promotion. Find the person who has already figured out how to get it done, and imitate them.

Don't Exaggerate

The quickest way to loose ground in your quest to promote yourself is to lie. Once you have been pegged as an exaggerator, everything else you say will be questioned.