Self promotion for junior introverts, by a junior introvert.

Written by Jessie Roper, senior business manager at Saatchi & Saatchi. Illustration by Timmi Tsapaliaris, business manager at Special Group.

A self-professed introvert, I find it hard speaking about myself or convincing someone that I’m the best person for a role. My inner dialogue is constantly running. I prefer to listen and process information before I contribute my opinion in front of others. ‘Self-promotion’ is a phrase that is to me, a little terrifying. I falsely associated it with blowing my own horn or being a show pony. 

When I got into advertising, I noticed that the industry felt naturally skewed to favour those with extrovert tendencies.

I noted how those with more confidence seemed to have the ability to market themselves in a really impressive way. I started to observe (as us introverts tend to do) and take notes on how I could improve my own skills to further my industry progression. Now, I’m no expert, but the below tips are things I’ve done that have helped me tackle self-promotion head on.

• Forget ‘self-promotion’ and think of how you add value
  That phrase might be triggering for you, like it was for me! However, it’s important we don’t lose our connection to that healthy desire to have our work and successes be seen and recognised by others.
  
  Preparing for an interview or role review? Start by writing down your successes, ideas, and skills which add value. Jotting these things down can not only help you to identify attributes of yours that are worth sharing, but also helps you repeat them vocally in a more natural manner. Better yet, reach out to someone you’ve worked with that knows you well and offer to write a mutual recommendation.

• Build a network
  Don’t be scared off by networking events. It’s important to have people around you who can give advice, vouch for your ability and be in your corner when you need them most.
  
  As introverts, we’re good at building deeper connections with people through active listening and empathy. Use this to your advantage. Focus on genuine one-on-one conversations, getting to know others in the industry and sharing your experiences. Don’t enter into these with the soul ambition of getting hired or being impressive. If you need somewhere to start, Youngbloods host events to help you meet other like-minded people and can connect you to mentors.
   

• Always follow up
  Conversations or interviews might not always go to plan, but it’s easy to leave an impression even after the moment has passed. Follow up with a LinkedIn invite or message or give the employer a phone call (or email) thanking them for their time and letting them know how excited you are at the prospect of the role.

  In my experience, the extra effort in communication is always recognised and valued.

  Don’t be afraid to reiterate some of your points if you’re worried that you didn’t perfectly articulate them in person. I’ve also been known to follow up on the follow up! It’s good to be invested and interested.
  

• Stand out in your workplace by utilising your strengths
  Have a think about whether your accomplishments are visible to your organisation or workplace. If you feel hidden away in the sea of noise, there are things you can do to hero your talents.

  Can you use your depth of thought to send sending around interesting articles or pieces or work with analysis to start conversations?

  If you have a hidden talent for event planning, can you organise for the workplace? Do you have a great proactive idea that’s worth bringing to the senior’s attention?

  Think of your greatest strengths and whether they’re visible. Think back on what abilities you’ve been recognised for, or what talents propelled your biggest accomplishments. Lean into these. In a review, one of my managers applauded my leadership ability for organising a mixed netball team and rallying the troops to participate and get involved. Although it seemed insignificant at the time, it was a way for me to leverage my strengths in a different way.

• Go beyond your workplace
  Although it’s important to be seen in your workplace, increasing your visibility outside of your day-to-day role will help you to build your profile with other industry leaders.
  
  Participating in extracurricular activities, getting involved in industry bodies and organisations, or taking on stretch assignments will not only help to build skills and confidence, but allow you to gain exposure for all the right reasons.

Low key, diligent and impactful introverts not only keep the world turning. They can achieve great things and get to great places, especially when they’re noticed.