How to Market Yourself Without Feeling Weird About It(And Why It’s Not Just for Job Seekers)
You’ve probably heard some version of this: “You have to learn how to sell yourself.”
Which… sounds kind of terrible. Most of us didn’t get into our careers to become walking commercials.
But like it or not, self-promotion is part of modern work. Whether you’re asking for a raise, leading a team, going after a new role, or trying to build trust with decision-makers, you’re marketing yourself. Not in a sleazy or fake way. In a clear and confident way.
And here’s the good news: You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. The same strategies marketers use to sell products can help you communicate your value — without feeling like you’re trying too hard.
Let’s break it down.
1. Be Credible Before You Try to Be Convincing
Think about the people you trust at work. Why them? Probably because they show up, know their stuff, and follow through.
That’s the starting point of any good self-marketing effort. You have to be credible before you try to sound credible.
This doesn’t mean listing your entire resume every time you speak up. It means:
Owning your expertise
Being honest about what you know and what you’re learning
Following through on your word
Speaking with clarity, not fluff
People trust people who are steady, thoughtful, and consistent — not the loudest or flashiest person in the room.
2. Likeability Isn’t Shallow — It’s Strategy
Let’s be real: People are more open to listening when they like the person speaking. That doesn’t mean you need to be a people-pleaser. But approachability matters.
In the workplace, likeability often looks like:
Listening more than you talk
Having a calm, confident tone
Showing up without ego
Being easy to work with
No one wants to feel “sold to.” But most people welcome a suggestion, idea, or pitch from someone who feels relatable, respectful, and human.
3. Say Just Enough (and No More)
One of the fastest ways to lose someone’s attention is to give them too much information, especially if you’re trying to make a case or ask for something.
We often think that more details = a stronger case. But that’s not always true. It depends on your audience.
Let’s say you’re asking leadership to approve a new project tool. You could walk them through every comparison chart and research article. But they just want to know, “Will this save time and reduce the mess?”
Try this instead:
“Right now, we’re using three different tools to manage updates, and it’s slowing things down. This platform replaces all three. I tested it with a small group and we saved hours every week. Want a quick demo?”
You’ve got their attention — short, clear, relevant.
If they want more info, they’ll ask. BTW, I am guilty of this one.
4. Timing and Tone Matter
You could have the perfect message, but if someone’s in a bad mood, stressed out, or distracted, it probably won’t land. The same goes for you. If you’re in a reactive or frazzled headspace, even a good message can come off wrong.
Before you try to influence someone:
Think about their state of mind
Consider your own tone and energy
Pick a moment where they (and you) are more open
Persuasion isn’t just about what you say — it’s also when and how you say it.
5. Don’t Sell to the Wrong Audience
This one’s simple but often overlooked: If the person you’re talking to doesn’t need or want what you’re offering, no amount of charm or clarity will work.
Whether you’re trying to pitch an idea, advocate for yourself, or lead a change, ask:
Is this the right person to hear this?
Is this the right time?
Why would they care?
If you’re not sure, ask questions before you start pitching. When you’re tuned into their needs, your message gets a whole lot stronger.
The Bottom Line:
You’re not a brand or a product. But you do have value, and that value deserves to be communicated clearly.
Good self-marketing isn’t bragging. It’s leadership. It’s knowing your worth, speaking up for it, and helping others see it too.
And if it still feels awkward? That’s normal. Start small. Start honest. And keep practicing.
Ready to turn insight into action?
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. If you’re trying to show up more confidently at work, communicate your value, or get unstuck in your current role — let’s talk.
Book a free 30-minute leadership strategy call. We’ll look at what’s getting in your way, what you’re aiming for, and how you can take the next step forward without second-guessing yourself.
To be persuasive, we must be believable;
To be believable, we must be creditable;
To be credible, we must be truthful".
Edward R Murrow
