Build Your Reputation and Your Career

How well do you toot your own horn?

There’s a well know saying: “It’s not what you know …but who you know?”

Well in today’s changing world, replace it with this: “It’s not only what you know, it’s not only who you know, but, as important, it‘s who knows you.”

In order to be known you can’t just stand there and wait for things to happen. Don’t assume people will notice the wonderful quality of your work or that of your department. Rather, build your reputation as a can-do professional or leader. Successful people don’t hide their achievements. They broadcast them at the right time and the right place.

Build Your Reputation and Career

Do you dread the idea of touting your skills and your work; think self-promotion smacks of showing off; and believe that it’s playing politics? If you do, then you‘re missing out on a key skills of managing one’s career. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. At the end of each week, document your accomplishments.
   This will ensure that you have an accurate record of the value you provide. It will also make it easier to talk about your achievements without feeling that you’re exaggerating.
2. Be seen and known in your organization.
   For example: Take on a high-profile assignments, volunteer to be on a multi-departmental task force, attend community events sponsored by your company, write an article for the internal newsletter or blog, etc.
3. Grow and maintain your network.
   Stay in touch with clients, supplier, partners and industry leaders because they also need to know of your accomplishments. They can be a great source for information, contacts and referrals.

Career Success Tip:

In a fast paced, changing workplace, it’s who sees you and knows your work that matters. Promote yourself, not be your title, but by the outcomes or results of what you do. Don’t assume people will notice the wonderful quality of your work or that of your department. How well do you toot your own horn?

Readers, what’s your experience with promoting yourself? Has it helped your career?

Do you want to develop Career Smarts?