Blowing Our Own Trumpet
In New Zealand, we have a strong underlying attitude that you don't boast about yourself, and we find it difficult to "Blow our own trumpet." I'm sure a lot of my fellow Kiwis would relate to this. Tall Poppy Syndrome probably plays a part in this area, which we are also plagued with. Basically, as Kiwis, we are not great at promoting ourselves.
If you draw attention to the value you’ve created you risk coming across as a shameless self-promoter. Not to mention the “icky” feeling that many of us get when we self-promote (narcissists excepted).
Self-promotion has actually been associated with worse performance reviews—particularly for women, who are penalised more heavily when they boast, although certain cultures, including the United States, are more tolerant of self-promotion than others, the potential downsides to bragging seem to be universal.
I personally find it difficult promoting myself, I feel uncomfortable hearing people speak about my talents and achievements. I am shy of being in front of a camera and will do what I can to avoid it...I am my most challenging client hahaha
So how do we overcome this strange inhibited conditioning that we as a culture suffer from? To quote Carrie Harman Creative…
We All Have Stories To Share
Telling Our Stories
When you get the opportunity to talk about your skills, achievements and qualifications, don’t just rattle them off as if you’re reading a list.
Not only will it seem more natural, but it will also put your achievements and qualifications in context. And your reader will feel a connection rather than just admiration. But don’t try to manipulate the conversation you’re having just so you can tell your story. Just have them ready for when the time is right.
If someone unexpectedly compliments you publicly, resist the instinct to humbly downplay it; a smile or a simple “Thank you” will suffice.
Start With A Passion
How often have you seen the word ‘expert’ or ‘guru’ on someone’s Twitter profile? It’s become such a cliché these days that most people either ignore the claim or laugh at it.
But when someone says they’re passionate about something you react differently. You feel compelled to read their content just so you can find out more about who they are and what they’ve done.
Passion is infectious. It stimulates conversation, which then gives you a way to talk about what you can do for people.
So start with your passions, because people will find them much more interesting. And they’ll find you much more interesting as well. There will be plenty of time to talk about your achievements later.
Be Original
With so many other businesses and individuals out there offering the same services, being original is one of the most essential tips to follow. The more unique your content is, the easier it will be to generate a following. Get creative and use a mix of video, text, and music. It’s all about getting noticed.
Captivate Your Audience
What captivates an audience? First, let me tell you what does NOT captivate an audience: an apology (for being nervous, late, under the weather, etc.) or any other message that sets the audience up to anticipate disappointment or dread.
Instead, start with a great story, a powerful quote, an anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
A captivated audience is one that’s getting something from you. Give them a laugh every once in a while and ask them questions.
Above all, be genuine. People are drawn to others who are authentic and speak with conviction. If your audience doesn’t believe what you’re saying, or your message doesn’t resonate with them or make them feel good, they won’t listen long. Speak to your audience as though they’re a part of the conversation. When your audience feels involved, they’ll naturally take an interest.
So to conclude… I must take my own advice and my next blog will be my story and what has led me to be where I am now.
