I recently hosted a personal branding workshop, and one sista admitted that she wasn’t comfortable talking about her skills and professional accomplishments. She didn’t want to “sound like she was bragging”.
She’s a seasoned, high-level tech professional, but like so many Black women, she was hesitant to “toot her own horn”.
No matter how many times I hear this sentiment from my clients, it breaks my heart every time. Why should we be mindful not to come across as too loud, too emotional, too angry, too strong, or too arrogant?
If this is you, just stop.
Today – right this moment – my prayer for you is that you no longer worry about what others may think. As uncomfortable as it may be, I want you to let go of your insecurity, and drop the “what-ifs”.
It’s long past time for you to stop dimming your light. This is how you can shed doubt, boost your confidence, and help your professional circle become aware of what you bring to the table.
Believe in yourself
Mindset, mindset, mindset. Every coach and consultant these days is talking about mindset (to the point where I almost hate the word) but umm…it’s true! If you don’t feel strong in your abilities, no one else will. Remember – God created one you! Not a single person on this earth has your unique skills, strengths, and values. Everything that you possess is intricately woven into your DNA. (Psalm 139:14)
Understand your “why”
There’s a reason for your gifts. Your purpose mobilizes you. Gets you out of bed and to work. What excites you about what you do (beyond getting paid)? Why are you passionate about what you do? Uncovering your “why” will help you explain not just what you do – but why you do it.
Share the wealth
Gifts are meant to be given – didn’t you know? Listen, even if public speaking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to share your knowledge professionally. You can co-write an article, write a blog post, contribute to an email newsletter, or conduct an intimate workshop to name a few. You’ll not only be providing useful information, but those on the receiving end will appreciate it.
Let others do the bragging for you
Take a look at your most recent performance review. Any glowing remarks that you think will help give other people insight into your abilities? Has a client given you any great feedback lately? Share it on social media, on your website – and even on LinkedIn – where you should be requesting recommendations from past and current colleagues, clients, project partners, etc. Think back to the projects you’ve worked on, and all of the people you’ve worked with or collaborated with over the years. You know there’s some bragging to be done – let your circle do the work!
I get it – talking about yourself isn’t the easiest thing to do, especially in an environment where you feel unseen, unheard, and misjudged. Use your confidence – and more importantly your Godfidence – so that your colleagues, supervisors, and prospects can see the quality of your work. It’s the combination and balance of the two that can take you further in your profession, especially when obstacles seem impossible.
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” (Jeremiah 17:1)
Do you think you could feel a bit stronger and more confident in your career? Let me know below.
If your answer is “no”, I’d love to help you identify your strengths and uncover your why so that you have the confidence you need to move forward. Schedule an express coaching session with me to get started.