Guide to Life: Self-promotion without the cringe

Work hard and hope someone notices? Many women are taught that’s the safest route. But staying silent can come at a cost. In this episode, we explore why talking about your achievements can feel uncomfortable - and how you can make it feel easier. Whether you’re asking for a raise, changing careers, looking for a new job or simply trying to stop downplaying your achievements, Nuala McGovern and guests bring you practical tips to help you speak about yourself with confidence and credibility.

Carla Khouri has recently changed careers. She’s left her job as a science teacher and recently qualified as the UK's first black Winter Mountain Leader. To put her new skills to work, Carla now needs to build her reputation and her network. We'll hear how she's navigated this challenge in the past, what's holding her back now and why she wants help with self-promotion.

Neuroscientist Gina Rippon, author of The Gendered Brain, explains why talking ourselves up can feel threatening. Writer and motivational speaker Stefanie Sword-Williams offers practical tips on ways to change our narrative around self-promotion.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Reframe self-promotion: It’s not bragging - it’s helping others understand your value.
• Visibility has many styles: You don’t have to be a ‘firework’ - quiet influence works too.
• Your brain can adapt: Discomfort isn’t failure; confidence grows with practise.
• Don’t fixate on negativity: Our brains cling to criticism - explore how to widen your focus.

GET IN TOUCH with your dilemmas and questions for The Woman’s Hour Guide to Life:
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Episodes of The Woman’s Hour Guide to Life are released on Sundays, only on BBC Sounds. You can also watch videos from the recordings on social media @bbcwomanshour

The Woman's Hour Guide to Life is presented by Nuala McGovern. The series is produced by Simon Richardson. Digital and audio production is by David Lloyd. The Content Editor is Olivia Bolton. The Executive Editor is Karen Dalziel.