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Self-promotion goes with the territory of applying to colleges and competing for jobs. Your strengths must be made known so that you can be accepted into that competitive slot for college or be hired by a top company. If singing your own praises isn’t a common habit, don’t worry. Employers and college admissions departments aren’t actually looking for egomaniacs. You do, however, need to become comfortable with discussing your strengths on your resume, in college application essays and during interviews.
Assess your strengths. This requires taking an objective look at your accomplishments and inherent qualities. For help, reflect back on the positive comments that your teachers and employers have given you in the past. You may have been told that you are reliable, intellectually curious, a strong communicator or possess some other positive trait. Make a list of these strengths.
Consider examples that reflect your strengths. Your creativity may have manifested itself in praiseworthy website designs. Your ability to lead others effectively may have led to a leadership award in school or at work. Your marketing abilities may have led to greater revenue for a prior company. Refer to these achievements when creating a resume or applying to college.
Express your strengths in the context of growth. Telling others that you are smart or a great presenter may be uncomfortable, but everyone likes to hear inspirational stories about how you worked to achieve these qualities. If you had to work at becoming an exceptional presenter or went to college while working a full-time job, these examples will convey the message that you are educated, a hard worker and value excellence.
