Not Bragging, Just Being Honest: An Introvert's Guide to Self-Promotion

Hey there, Curious Minds!

I’m Marie Roker-Jones, a curious introvert. I started this newsletter because I wanted to create a space where we can explore our unique strengths and navigate the professional world in our own way.

In this edition, I'm tackling a topic that might seem a bit daunting??: self-promotion. But don’t worry, I'm not suggesting you start speaking in public or drawing attention to yourself. Instead, I'll sharing ways to subtly yet unapologetically showcase your accomplishments.

Today's Big Question: How can introverts effectively promote themselves without feeling like a show-off?

Let's go........

Gamify Networking

• Strategy: Turn networking into a game. Set small, attainable goals like 'Initiate one new conversation per week' or 'Join a virtual event monthly'.
• Advantage: This approach turns networking into a positive and enjoyable experience.
• Tool: Explore Lunchclub for networking with ease.

Embrace Digital Storytelling

• Strategy: Narrate your career path in engaging story form on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn, focusing on your challenges and triumphs.
• Advantage: Storytelling engages others and showcases your skills in a compelling way.
• Tool: Gain insights from experts like Corrales Cachola .

Introvert-Friendly Co-Working

Strategy: Participate in or initiate virtual co-working sessions designed for introverts, focusing on shared goals and progress.

• Advantage: Fosters a sense of community and visibility in a comfortable space.
• Tool: Collaborate via platforms like Focusmate .

Digital Achievement Timeline

• Strategy: Develop an online 'Achievement Timeline' – a digital version of the accomplishment jar. This interactive timeline will chronologically showcase your milestones and successes.
• Advantage: An online timeline allows for easy sharing and updating, and visually tracks your professional growth over time.
• Tool: Utilize a platform like Tiki-Toki or TimeGraphics to create and manage your digital timeline. You can add images, links, and detailed descriptions to each entry, making your achievements more engaging and accessible.

Capitalize on Your Digital Footprint

• Strategy: Turn your online presence into a dynamic showcase of your professional journey. Regularly update your LinkedIn profile with engaging articles you've authored, detailed highlights of your key projects, and insightful commentary on posts that resonate with your expertise.
• Advantage: This strategy not only builds your professional brand but also connects you with your network in a meaningful way. It positions you as a thought leader and a proactive member of your industry.
• Tool: Leverage LinkedIn's rich platform to its fullest. Beyond updating your profile, actively participate in group discussions, endorse skills of your connections, and use LinkedIn's publishing tool to share your unique perspectives. Engaging consistently and constructively on LinkedIn can significantly amplify your professional presence and influence.

Curiosity Challenges

Challenge #1: The Networking Ripple Effect: Begin by making one new connection on LinkedIn. Once you've connected, look through their network to find another person to connect with, forming a chain. Gradually expand your network through meaningful, targeted connections, like a ripple effect.

Challenge #2: The Skills Showcase Week: For one week, post daily about a skill, project, or work-related hobby you're proud of. Showcase your varied talents and interests to your network.

Key Takeaway: Embracing self-promotion as an introvert means finding enjoyable, stress-free ways to highlight your strengths and accomplishments.

Action Steps

1. Register for a Virtual Co-Working Event: Choose a session this week on Focusmate or a similar platform. Before the session, decide on a specific project or task you want to complete during this time.
2. Start a Simple Networking Challenge: Pick a small, specific networking goal for the week. This could be as straightforward as commenting on a LinkedIn post in your field, sending a connection request with a personalized message.

Thought of the Day: "It's not bragging if you can back it up." — Muhammad Ali

Looking forward to sparking more curiosity next week,

Marie