Get in the Game. Sell Yourself.

"You owe me" is one of my least favorite expressions. EVER. It shuts me down. I have a very low tolerance for people who complain that "someone else did them wrong," or that "they didn't get what they deserved," or that it's "someone else's fault." Enough already. Get in the game and learn to be your best advocate.

It's essential to be direct and clear about what you need to succeed. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself and explain what you want. That's how you earn respect and get what you want. You are solely responsible for being your best advocate.

No one can sell you like you.

Here is how:

1. Know the facts. If you are in a position to advocate for yourself, you better come from a place of facts, not fiction. Do you want a raise? Don't say you deserve it "just because you feel you deserve it." Please give me the facts. Sell me. Be intentional, not assumptive.
2. Confidence is contagious, and it sells. Be clear about your accomplishments. Clearly articulate them with that confidence. Most importantly, get over any fear of "self-promotion" Toot your horn if you have done the right thing. Self-promotion is acceptable at the right time and place. Otherwise, it's blathering on indiscriminately to anyone who walks past your web. Balance is better.
3. Control your narrative. Don't let anyone hijack your narrative. You own your story. Others will try and change the facts and steal the story. If this happens, don't suck it up. SPEAK up.
4. Know your virtual team. Who knows you and gets you? Whom do you trust? Who shares your goals and drive at work? Who can and would "speak up" for you? Engage them and ask them for support. People want to help.
5. Yes, you are in sales mode. Get over it. Do you think your brilliance, degrees, and work output is enough? Ha and ha. It's a start. You MUST connect the dots between what you want and why it will advance the team, company, relationships, or the "circle of trust." That's how it's done.
6. Timing matters. Do you want to sell an idea? Pick the right time. Ask for time - and don't assume you will always be well received. Know your audience and prepare accordingly. Don't overplay your hand and know when to fold 'em and try again later.
7. Mindset matters. Your mindset about YOU is critical. Don't give away the microphone and don't let anyway take it from you.

Doing the above transforms you into a great salesperson. You are selling the greatest product on earth. You. Why the heck do you think I say, "everyone's in sales?"

I hope you don't mind some tough love, but it needs to be said. No one sells you as well as you. So, get out there and do it. Stop whining. Start winning. ( that's MY saying - don't even THINK about taking it)

Todd