Practical Ways to Promote Your Work Without Feeling Uncomfortable

In the last few months, I have been consistently promoting my freelance services, and I have noticed a curious behavior.

As you start creating marketing content about your services, you begin to realize:

✅ There is a cultural mindset that makes you feel ashamed of talking about your work;

✅ Some people get uncomfortable and even say unnecessary (and sometimes rude) things to discourage you from promoting your services;

✅ You notice that almost no one talks about their own work or services. And when they do, it’s often through a small "window" in group conversations, briefly mentioning what they do;

✅ Some people may start perceiving you as "arrogant" just because you share your work and its results;

💡And this makes me wonder: How did we get to this point?

What is wrong with promoting my services and being proud of my achievements?

Whether freelance or full-time employment, work is an exchange. You pay me, and I deliver the product or service you need.

To reach the current quality level of my work, I have invested countless hours studying, testing, and improving my skills. No one learns by osmosis. So yes, you should be proud of your work because it required time, effort, and dedication to achieve your results.

Breaking the Stigma of Self-Promotion

Many professionals feel hesitant to promote their work because they fear judgment. Society has ingrained the idea that self-promotion is equivalent to arrogance. However, if you don’t talk about your work, how will people know what you do?

🚀Successful professionals across industries are often the ones who embrace marketing.

🗣️They showcase:

• achievements;

• technical knowledge;

• work histories;

• challenges;

• feedbacks.

The marketing spiral of showcasing your work build credibility and attract new opportunities.

If they can do it, why shouldn’t you?

Why You Should Never Feel Ashamed to Promote Your Work

1. Your Work Has Value

The products and services you offer solve problems, add value, and improve people’s lives. Believe in the quality of your work and proudly share it with the world. Clients and potential customers are looking for solutions, and your expertise might be exactly what they need.

2. Visibility Creates Opportunities

If people don’t know what you do, they won’t think of you when they need your services. Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or employee, visibility is crucial. The more you talk about your work, the more doors you open.

3. You Deserve Recognition

Think about all the hours you’ve spent improving your skills, refining your processes, and delivering excellent results. Why wouldn’t you share your progress? Recognition isn’t about ego; it’s about acknowledging your hard work and inspiring others in the process.

4. People Buy From Those They Trust

Marketing isn’t just about selling—it’s about building trust. When you consistently share insights, experiences, and successes, you establish yourself as an authority in your field. This trust leads to more clients, better partnerships, and greater career growth.

Overcoming the Fear of Judgment

One of the main reasons people hesitate to promote their work is fear of criticism. Here’s how you can overcome this fear:

1. Shift Your Mindset

Instead of seeing self-promotion as bragging, view it as sharing valuable information. You are not just talking about yourself; you are educating potential clients, demonstrating expertise, and showing how your work makes a difference.

2. Ignore Negative Feedback

Unfortunately, some people will always have negative things to say. But remember, their opinions don’t pay your bills. The right audience—your clients and supporters—will appreciate what you share.

3. Create a Marketing Habit

Make it a habit to talk about your work. Whether through social media posts, blog articles, case studies, or networking events, consistent marketing helps normalize self-promotion and makes it feel more natural.

4. Focus on Value, Not Just Results

Instead of simply showcasing achievements, share the journey. Talk about the challenges you faced, how you solved them, and the lessons learned. This approach makes your content more relatable and engaging.

Practical Ways to Promote Your Work Without Feeling Uncomfortable

If you’re new to self-promotion, start small. Here are some practical ways to get started:

✅ Share Testimonials and Success Stories – If you’ve helped a client achieve great results, share their story (with their permission). Testimonials build credibility and show real-world impact.

✅ Create Educational Content – Write blog posts, record videos, or share insights on social media. Teach your audience something valuable related to your work.

✅ Engage in Industry Conversations – Join discussions in online forums, LinkedIn groups, or professional events. Offering insights positions you as an expert.

✅ Highlight Your Unique Selling Points – What makes your work different? Why should someone hire you over a competitor? Make these points clear in your content.

✅ Stay Consistent – The more regularly you talk about your work, the easier it becomes. Consistency builds confidence and helps your audience stay engaged.

Own Your Work, Own Your Success

You weren’t born a plant to survive on photosynthesis! Your work puts food on the table, pays the bills, and allows you to grow professionally and personally.

There is nothing wrong with promoting your work. In fact, it’s necessary. If you’re delivering quality services, solving problems, and making a difference, you deserve to be recognized for it.

So don’t let outdated cultural norms hold you back. Be proud of your work, share your achievements, and let the world know what you bring to the table.

The more you embrace self-promotion, the more opportunities will come your way. And remember—your next big client might be just one post away! 😉

Laura Oliveira

Mobile Developer and Content Creator

Fascinated by technology since she was a teenager, she loves solving problems and learning new things.

I currently work bringing ideas to life for Android apps.

I have +2 million people impacted through the production of digital content.

2M+

3

Years Creating Content

Content Reach