Self-Promotion or Bragging: The Better Way to Brand
Self-promotion or bragging? Which is the better way for potential customers and fans to become aware of what you’re selling? It would be helpful first to understand the difference between the two. By believing in your product and expressing your views and ideas about it, you allow others to become part of the larger picture that you are creating. In an age of social media and the power behind independent marketing, no matter what the strategy, anything is possible.
Self-promotion is basically the idea of sharing ideas, products or concepts with an audience. It doesn’t require the person to adhere to the spotlight. Bragging, however, the pure and simple act of boasting and claiming credit for accomplishments or deeds. The two are very different because self-promotion removes the personal aspect from the deed; bragging is all about the personal aspect. Many bloggers and self-promoters enjoy the spotlight and have no difficulty claiming it for themselves. The unique quality that is shared by both is the ability to grasp what you’re trying to share and put it and yourself out there for the world to see and to judge. That’s a powerfully intimidating factor for many who don’t like being judged. Or, the many who don’t grow or prosper from
constructive criticism. But keep it simple and build yourself a personal platform – decide that the product or idea that you are promoting is what you believe in firmly, whether people like or dislike it; whether others cheer or your idea fails. The important thing to remember when self-promoting is that it’s best to consider the task as one of self-expression rather than boasting about what you’ve done or are planning to do. People are innately selfish beings; they want to know about things that will possibly be of benefit to them. If you’re sharing your own successes or your own personal triumphs, these things are not of any benefit because they belong to you. However, your product may be of benefit to them, so they will listen and show interest. Especially when you point out how it will make their lives better. And finally, an important tip, try to do your most creative work in the evenings when your creative juices are flowing free from inhibitions – really, cortisol levels are higher at the end of the day allowing for free, creative thoughts to flow freely. Use this time to consider what you’re promoting and then do so without boundaries! Jonah Engler is a financial expert from NYC.