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Stating Your Value

Stating Your Value

Many people, especially women, are uncomfortable talking about their accomplishments. There’s a belief that it is not “team” behavior. Although recognizing team wins is important, focusing only on team accomplishments does a disservice to yourself and the company.

Making others aware of your value has many benefits. The company understands how to best use your talents, which means that the work that best suits you is directed your way. Working in your “sweet spot” helps you polish your skills. And as you become known for your expertise you will attract opportunities and, ideally, promotions.

It takes careful planning to inform others of your value and talents without coming off as a braggart.

First, keep track of your successes. Regularly capture your accomplishments in a folder so that you’re not only prepared for your performance review, you’ll be able to recall your significant successes easily. Identifying specific wins sheds light on the progress both you and the company are making.

Look for natural opportunities to share your successes. Participate in cross-departmental projects or committees where you can share what you’re working on and note recent wins with people you don’t normally interact with. Are there routine meetings where you can get coworkers up to speed on what you’ve done? Sharing information and ideas will help others in the company.

Prepare for impromptu conversations. If someone asks, “What’s new?” be ready to tell them something positive. You can’t wing it, so preparation is key. Talk about successes without emphasizing the “I.” Start with “we” and gradually transition into using “I.” Ideally tailor the information you share to the interests of the person you’re talking to.

Only you can take charge of your career, and it starts with being clear about your accomplishments and the value you contribute to your company.

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