You gotta blow your own trumpet

It seems that the old saying is true; sometimes we are driven to teach what we need to learn most. Entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, consultants, authors, activists and many others (including me) have to learn to “blow your own trumpet”. Social media may make us feel more connected but the truth is that the world, online or off, is not sitting around waiting for your next comment. Nor are they waiting to shower you with praise for each and every accomplishment–especially when some of your accomplishments have escaped notice. You must learn to brag…nicely…about why you’re great.
Doing this can be especially tough for some. If you were raised in a culture or family that frowns upon bragging or as my mother called it “resting on your laurels”, you may be less than comfortable providing the information your potential clients and customers need. Recently I got an email from one of my online friends, Cryn. She sent out a letter to those of us who’ve been watching her blog and work about the crisis facing student loan debtors. In it she gave us all an update on her progress, the attention she’s been able to focus on this issue and her personal accomplishments (like being including as a Huffington Post contributor). Here’s Cryn’s blog: http://alleducationmatters.blogspot.com/
Contrary to what my mother might have thought I wasn’t offended by Cryn’s “bragging” at all. First I am so proud to know her and thrilled with her accomplishments. Second Cryn’s updates let people who want to participate (say in a letter writing campaign or as a donor) know how they can become involved in this particular cause. Third, and most important to me, was the feeling that Cryn’s accomplishments provided me with a gentle push to work harder myself.
Whether it’s sending an email/letter or a regular newsletter you need to take the time to tell your network what’s happening. Keep your social media channels up to date with news, photos and links about what you are doing and planning. And don’t forget to share the spotlight in the midst of all this “bragging”. Let people know about your collaborations and joint ventures.
In the words of the old song, “You gotta blow your own trumpet. You gotta toot, toot, toot, your own horn. You gotta tell everybody you’re glad you were born.”