When we were children, most of us have been thought that self-praise is not something nice people do. It makes us seem arrogant and nobody wants to be friends with an egocentric. Although that is partly true, this attitude can be detrimental to our future professional life to such an extent that people are afraid to apply for a position because they think they are unworthy. 

However, the fact is that successful businesses rely on self-promotion and branding. Even though they all wish to be praised by their clients, they don’t wait for it to happen, they actively build an image about their products and brand. This image and the story they create is what draws the customers to them, and this is quite similar to what happens to individuals as well. People are drawn to you, in a professional or a personal sense, if there is a good ‘vibe’ around you, which basically means you are your own brand. So, take a look at these three reasons why you should invest yourself in personal branding.

You should show off your skills

When applying for a position, your resume is very important, but it’s not vital. Whether you are applying for the position of an editorial assistant in Chicago or a junior developer in Bristol, your future employer will be looking everywhere to learn as much as possible about you. This also means previous companies you worked at and even your social media profiles. Since this is inevitable in the case of meticulous employers, why not put in some extra work into your self-image? 

Your expertise and skill set is something to be publicly known. Do you speak a foreign language? Are your computer skills above average? Are you exceptionally good at painting? All of your professional skills and your interests can be an asset, since employers wish not only to hire a person for a particular job but also someone who will fit into their system of values. 

It’s not as complicated as you think 

If you get a headache even at the thought of managing your own website because you think it is a huge endeavor – well, don’t worry, it’s not, it’s almost as easy as online surfing. Speaking of that, statistics show, for example, that 88% percent of Australians use the internet nowadays, which only confirms the importance of having an online presence. 

If you are not a tech-savvy person, there are plenty of professional agencies who can make a website for you. Even if you still feel uneasy about promoting yourself, there’s a solution: perhaps some creative brand strategy from Melbourne might pique your interest, having in mind their passion for using the internet. And don’t forget social media – it goes without saying that your future employer is not supposed to see drunken pictures from wild adolescent years. Instead, present your interests and social activities in the best light.

It will help you achieve your goals

A study conducted in the UK revealed that almost half of all workers are unhappy about their job and wish to change it. Whether you are an administrative worker in London or a customer service representative in Ottawa, it all boils down to the same fact and that is, that most people are deeply dissatisfied with their work positions. They toil away doing something they don’t like, or they are frustrated about their salaries or working conditions.

Naturally, changing jobs is no easy matter, and unless you can afford it, it is not recommendable to quit one job before you find another. However, you can build your brand and your story around you, so that when the time comes and when that position you have been after opens, you will be ready. You will have an impeccable resume, an impressive portfolio and a social media life oriented towards education, charity, and fulfilling hobbies.

Regardless of what your parents may have told you, self-praise is not something you should be ashamed of. You spend so much time educating yourself, battling to get enough exercise and sleep, to eat healthily. You strive to be a better person, to help those in need, to be mindful of the world around you. Let’s face it, you invest so much time, energy and money into yourself, so, in the professional sense, you indeed are your own best product. 

If you don’t feel comfortable tooting your own horn, it’s fine, there are people who can help you with it and with time, you will feel more comfortable about seeing yourself in a different light. Presenting your knowledge and skills isn’t conceited, it just means that you are confident enough to know your value as an employee. You shouldn’t be shy about your accomplishments since, at the end of the day, they are what will help you achieve your goals so that one day, you will be able to do the things you are passionate about.

Also Read: Things To Keep In Mind Before Setting Up An Office

Author Bio:

Victor T. Miller, a Sydney-based business and marketing specialist who has expanded businesses over 5 years. Regular contributor at Bizzmark blog. I am a person who loves to inform people about the latest news in the industry also as sharing tips and advice based on my professional experience and knowledge.