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  • May–June 2021
  • Article
  • Harvard Business Review

Savvy Self-Promotion: The Delicate Art and Science of Bragging

By: Leslie K. John
  • Format:Print
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Abstract

Everyone knows that success at work depends on being—and being seen as—both competent and likable. You need people to notice your growth and accomplishments while also enjoying your company. But if you draw attention to the value you’ve created, to ensure that managers and peers recognize it, you risk coming across as a shameless self-promoter. No one likes a braggart. In this article the author explains how to highlight your accomplishments at work without having it backfire. Drawing from a fascinating strain of laboratory research, she advises against several popular tactics such as “humblebragging” and “boomerasking” (asking a question in the hope it will be reciprocated so that you can bring up your own accomplishments). Instead, she advises, recognize situations where self-promotion is socially acceptable (such as job interviews) and consider using a mentor or other agent to boast on your behalf.

Keywords

Self-promotion; Success; Behavior

Citation

John, Leslie K. "Savvy Self-Promotion: The Delicate Art and Science of Bragging." Harvard Business Review 99, no. 3 (May–June 2021): 145–148.
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About The Author

Leslie K. John

Negotiation, Organizations & Markets
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    • November 2022
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    Opportunity Neglect: An Aversion to Low-probability Gains

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    When Less Is More: Consumers Prefer Brands that Donate More in Relative versus Absolute Terms

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More from the Author
  • Opportunity Neglect: An Aversion to Low-probability Gains By: Emily Prinsloo, Kate Barasz, Leslie K. John and Michael I. Norton
  • The Bulletproof Glass Effect: Unintended Consequences of Privacy Notices By: Aaron R. Brough, David A. Norton, Shannon L. Sciarappa and Leslie K. John
  • When Less Is More: Consumers Prefer Brands that Donate More in Relative versus Absolute Terms By: Elizabeth A. Keenan, Anne V. Wilson and Leslie K. John
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