Promote Yourself: Speak Up!

Q. It seems a lot of "politicking" goes on at company social events—anniversaries, retirements, birthdays, and holiday parties. I see many people talking about their work progress to upper-level managers. I'm quiet, and like to focus only on my job, but I often see others getting ahead because of their ability to "talk themselves up." Should I be trying to do this? It isn't easy for me. —Frank T.

A. There's nothing wrong with focusing on doing your job well, and confining your discussions only to necessary work topics with associates. But this might not help you get on the list of those considered for promotion—especially to higher management positions. One reason: the higher you go in an organization, especially in management, the more people-skills you need, and the ability to build multiple work relationships. It's probably a good thing that not everyone likes doing this, or we'd all be spending our time promoting ourselves and building networks—rather than getting the work done.

Still, no one can promote your talents, skills, and success better than you can. And if

you want to get noticed, you’ve got to invest some workplace time in networking, and letting others know your value to the company.

If you do want to increase your personal exposure within your company, here are some strategies that usually work well:

• Look for opportunities.

Retirement parties, birthdays, awards luncheons, information and training sessions and similar events are great ways to meet influential people and higher-ups. Attend them and look for opportunities to introduce yourself, connect with others, and network.

• Prepare Your Comments.

Think of a workplace event as another meeting where you can express yourself and share your ideas. Think about what's a hot topic in the company right now: a competitor's recent move; a new product; a recent organization change. Plan how you can express yourself on that topic and show how you’re on board: supporting the move; applying your skills; adapting to the change; getting involved in helping make things happen.

• Be Positive.

There are plenty of people who complain—just make sure you're not one of them. Most people like to be around those who have a can-do attitude and show friendliness and confidence. Upper management looks for people who want to make things work better—not those who block change. Avoid phrases like, "It won't work… we tried that before… we don't have the money… time…staff." Instead, learn to respond with phrases like, "There has to be a way to make this happen…I think we can make it work if we look at some fresh options…there are some good opportunities for us here."

• Ask questions.

You'll be surprised at how much you learn, and how many people will consider you an interesting conversationalist, if you just keep asking questions, and show a real interest in the answers: "What do you think about…What's your experience been with this?…What are your ideas on…How would you go about…?”

• Build Your Interpersonal Skills.

There are plenty of programs you can sign up for that will help you build your people-interaction skills. Many cost very little: adult education programs in your school district; training programs your company offers; Toastmasters (www.toastmasters.org).

• Imitate Successful People.

Watch what higher-ups and influential people in the company do, and imitate them. They usually know how to “work” a crowd, and say the right things. (You’ll find these people take the initiative to introduce themselves; they show an upbeat, confident personality; show they like the people.)

• Compliment People.

Be careful that you don't appear insincere, but give honest compliments about good decisions; say how well their department is doing; how clear or helpful you found their comments at a previous meeting.

• Offer Your Help.

Offer to serve on special task forces or teams; offer your expertise; your time, your support. Each day, look for opportunities to act as a resource to gain exposure to influential people and higher-ups.

• Join a Professional Association.

Expand your network by joining a career-related association, and take a leadership role: sign up for committees, offer to run for office, or make a presentation on a current topic.

A final word: be yourself. You can't—and shouldn't try to—change your basic personality. If you're quiet and somewhat shy, it will be difficult for you to position yourself as the life of the party. And it won't work well for very long, either. So, play to your strengths. A quiet person who is honestly interested in other people, and who is clearly an enthusiastic team player, is someone others like to be around. Make a list of your qualities, and let them shine. You might even enjoy yourself in the process.