Is self-promotion arrogant?
Mar 02, 2025
Last week, I met a talented female engineer at a workshop who shared a familiar frustration: “My manager always praises my work, but nothing changes. Shouldn’t they promote me? How can I leverage this praise?”
It’s a common dilemma. We often hope that great work speaks for itself. Meanwhile, we worry that showcasing our achievements might seem boastful or arrogant. But here’s the truth: advocating for yourself isn’t bragging — it’s ensuring that your hard-earned results are recognised and rewarded.
The problem with staying silent
You might think: “If my work is good, people will notice.” But here’s what often happens when you say nothing:
- No visibility: Your team doesn’t always know how much you do.
- Missed chances: Managers may assume you’re happy where you are. They don’t offer promotions or bigger projects.
- Growing resentment: You watch others move ahead, and you feel stuck.
It’s not bragging to talk about your work; it’s making sure people understand the impact you’re having.
The cost of “staying small”
In psychology, there is a concept called “loss aversion.” We’re so scared of losing respect — or of sounding arrogant — that we avoid speaking up. But the real cost is losing out on promotions, better pay, or new opportunities. Remember:
Showing your work and how you contribute to the success of the team and company is not arrogance. It’s responsible communication.
A simple formula: the “achievement story”
To talk about your wins without feeling like you’re bragging, try this formula:
- Context
- What was the problem or goal?
- Example: “Our team had to launch a new project with a tight budget and a strict deadline.”
- Contribution
- What actions did you take?
- Example: “I led a redesign of the workflow, found ways to cut expenses, and cleared roadblocks by talking directly to key decision-makers.”
- Outcome
- What were the results, and why do they matter?
- Example: “We finished two weeks early, saved 15% on costs, and our client was thrilled. This helped our company build a stronger reputation and retain that client.”
By sticking to Context, Contribution, and Outcome, you tell a clear story. You’re not just showing off — you’re explaining how you helped the organisation succeed.
What we can learn from Indra Nooyi
Indra Nooyi, a former CEO of PepsiCo, is a great example of speaking up in the right way. She didn’t just say, “I’m good at my job.” She showed how her choices helped the company:
- Big move: She led the purchase of Tropicana for $3.3 billion in 1998.
- Why it mattered: She explained the big-picture reason—people wanted healthier drinks, and Tropicana fit that trend.
- Result: By tying her idea to future goals, she made PepsiCo stronger and proved her leadership.
When you explain why something matters, people see you as someone who can guide the company forward.
Three steps to speak about your work with confidence
1. Keep a “brag sheet” all year
Write down your wins as they happen. Note any praise from coworkers or clients. This is your factual record of what you’ve done well.
2. Practice your story
Use the Achievement Story formula. Rehearse with a friend or mentor. Ask if you sound clear and confident, not defensive or boastful.
3. Use collaborative language
Show how your work helped the team or company, not just you. For example:
“I’m proud of our progress on [project], especially my role in [specific task]. I’d love to apply these skills on a bigger scale.”
Your next step
Take five minutes now. Write one short Achievement Story from your work:
- Context: What was the problem or goal?
- Contribution: What did you do to help solve it?
- Outcome: What changed because of your actions?
Then, share it with a friend or coworker. The more you talk about your achievements, the more natural it becomes. Soon, you’ll find it easier to speak up without feeling like you’re “showing off.”
Remember, self-promotion doesn’t have to feel self-centred. By thoughtfully sharing how you add value, you not only earn the recognition you deserve but also inspire others to do the same.
That’s a win-win for you and for everyone around you.