The Art of Self Promotion
By Maceo Keeling –
There’s a belief that self-promotion is a bad thing.
African American cultures have socialized us to believe that we shouldn’t talk about our successes or achievements. If we do, we are labeled arrogant, self-centered, and other negative descriptions.
However, self-promotion, if it’s tactfully done, is crucial for marketing yourself in social and workplace settings.
So when is it appropriate? How do you do it right? When does it cross the line to become boastful, or just plain condescending? What should you do in the absence of a publicist, or a doting grandma who isn’t around to tell your story?
Consider this: We self-promote in everything we do. The clothes you wear can say that you are attentive to your appearance … or disheveled and unorganized! Your speech can say that you are intentional with words and are educated, or that you are pompous and/or condescending.
If you are a member of an organization of which you have a leadership role, or an association related to your business, you should make that known. The key is to always promote factual, rele-vant, and verifiable information when you speak. If the information is true, simply state it as “a matter of fact.”
On the job: If you’ve completed numerous job-related trainings successfully, your employer has to acknowledge that the trainings is a valuable resource. Should you apply for another position, self-promote and say, “I’ve completed training on this date and have demonstrated a high level of competence in this area on my performance review. I feel confident that I can do this job.” Tie in the facts to how your achievements translates into positives for the organization or company.
Finally, recognize the gifts that you have and share them to create value for yourself, and honor the gifts of others. Self-promotion, oddly enough, is not so much about you as it is about the light inside you. You’ll find that you will earn the respect you feel you deserve. Give honor and glory where it is do and there will be no need for false humility.
You were chosen to be you, so do you! Be you! Show you at your best!
In any case, practice self-promotion every day, in your relationships, at work, in church—and find your lane.
“You don’t have to be great! Be your best YOU! Answer the call!”
Dr. King had a dream, now we must have vision. The Conscious Call radio program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on WRES-FM 100.7. In a collaboration with the radio program, the Urban News will help keep readers informed about events, programs, news, and the progress of The Conscious Call. For more information, contact the Conscious Call at (828) 989-6999 and visit www.theconsciouscall.com.
The opinions and statements made in this column are solely the opinions of the author and not necessarily those of The Urban News.
