Last week I wrote about the importance of informational interviewing when you’re thinking about what’s next.
Talk to people a couple of levels above you, but first, have a sense of what you are good at and what you want.
But here’s where it gets interesting.
Don’t limit sharing your message to the times that you’re strategizing a big move — instead, make it a habit.
Recently Marcus Buckingham talked to HBR Ideacast about the importance of using your strengths to find motivation and satisfaction at work.
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
He talks about the importance of taking the initiative in letting people know what you’re good at.
Don’t leave it to others to figure it out, because they probably won’t.
To avoid seeing a promotion go to someone else, you have to sell yourself a bit.
I know people hate this! But with a background in sales and marketing, I know that even the best product or service can sit on the shelf if no one talks about it or shares its benefits.
One tool I love is the Strengths Finder 2.0. It helps people gain a lexicon for talking about their transferrable skills, and for talking about themselves in ways that feel natural, not obnoxious or boastful.
Remember that sharing what you’re good at helps point people in the direction of giving you the opportunities you want.
That means more happiness for you, and more effectiveness and productivity for them.
My best,
Claire
