SELLING YOURSELF: SHOULD I PROMOTE MY ABILITIES?

If you’re anything like me, you’ve wondered why you have to sell yourself, why you have to state how good you are at something in order to write a CV, get a job or pass an interview.

Whether you like it or not, self promotion (for lack of a better word) transfers into every area you can think of, even outside of formal settings.

One way or the other, you’ve got to sell your idea to a friend to push them out of their comfort zone or convince them of something you strongly believe in.

I like to see selling yourself not as a way to promote yourself, but a way to channel your abilities towards achieving something for others.

Selling your abilities then doesn’t have to be a selfish pursuit but a confident harnessing of your skills wherever they are needed.

This will take a clear understanding of your strengths, an honest assessment of your weaknesses and a wise recognition of what you can offer. 

This means no false humility— if you can do something well, admit it and truthfully assess the level of your abilities. 

And no false exaltations— in fact you’ll be found out if you claim to be able to do something well and you can’t deliver in the way you’ve promised.

How then can I secure a position and convince others I can deliver what they need:

1. Put your listener at the centre of your pitch: Anytime, you’re invited to talk about yourself, remember it’s not all about you.

We’ve seen it done several times, especially in business- the human-centred approach. In UserExperience, users tend to get comfortable and value products that cater to their said and unsaid needs.

You’ll only follow accounts on Instagram or Twitter that you sense can bring you some sort of good (knowledge, entertainment or connection).

So, take the focus off of yourself. Show your listener that you care about them and what they want to achieve. Then, present everything about you that confirms that you are the best fit for that role.

2. Improve your skills regularly: Know industry standards and reach them.

You won’t have to lie /exaggerate your worth if you’re actually improving your skills and you can vouch for your abilities.

So, stop being lazy. If you’re looking at a prospective job opening or business opportunity, start learning everything that will make you qualified for it.

3. Have a good growth mindset: When you’re taking a job or starting something new, you may not always have ALL the required skills.

However, it takes a certain growth mindset to be willing and able to learn on the job, and be committed to delivering value in whatever you find yourself doing, even if you don’t have much experience.

So, have a good attitude to work. Be a self-learner. Take advantage of the endless internet resources on any skills you need to learn.

4. Grow your soft skills: It takes more than being able to do the job perfectly to be the best for a role. You must also have a good work ethic.

Beyond all the hard skills you can bring to the table, traits like reliability, dedication, productivity, discipline, teamwork, integrity, emphasis on quality and cooperation, are what will keep you in the workplace.

So, cultivate these habits in your own personal life. Practice punctuality and discipline. Remain focused and persistent in personal projects. Prepare for the future.

You now know that “selling yourself” is not always bad. In fact, if you avoid it, you’ll miss offering your best to the world and making a difference where you can.

Not putting yourself out there, especially when it is uncomfortable, stems from being afraid of responsibility and feedback. But most people don’t even really care.

Be courageous and go do those things you love to do. Be confident to contribute the very best as your own part in life. If you’re working at excellence, there’s no need to hide your abilities.