Nowadays, the ability to search for a new job that is better than the previous one (!) and to promote your skills in the market is key.
Nevertheless, some people find this process demeaning and an assault on their dignity. They believe their value should be evident without any significant effort on their part. If you hold this view, you're in serious trouble and it's time to reconsider your stance.
The job market, like any other market, operates according to the laws of supply and demand. Expecting employers to find and appreciate you on their own is nothing more than an illusion. In a highly competitive environment, it's crucial to know how to stand out. And far from being degrading, it's a reality of the modern economy. Moreover, it’s quite exhilarating.
Promoting yourself isn’t about selling your soul and body, as some might think, but about showcasing your professional skills and achievements. Even the most talented individuals, whether they are showbiz stars or successful entrepreneurs, actively promote themselves and their accomplishments. They don't just wait around; they create opportunities for their growth.
If you think that employers should automatically recognize your worth and offer you the perfect conditions, you are deeply mistaken. Successful people understand that they need to take initiative, build networks, develop their skills, and not be afraid to talk about their achievements. When they demonstrate how capable they are through actions and words, they begin to get recommended and inquired about. Does that sound like humiliation? No - it's mastering your career management.
Exceptions are geniuses. The rare few.
Another exception are welders, machinists, electricians. They don’t need to promote themselves. The market is on their side, as there is a clear shortage of such people.
There are a few other categories, but I am addressing those building careers in the corporate world.
Accept that promoting yourself is a natural and necessary process in today's world. It not only increases your chances of success but also helps you develop confidence in your capabilities and professional possibilities. Don't wait until you are overtaken by those who understood this earlier.