Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
The key is to avoid common missteps, such as making every post “all about me” and posting too often without a clear message.
In this series, Assistant Business Editor Cheong Poh Kwan finds practical answers to candid questions from readers on navigating workplace challenges and advancing in their career. Get more tips by signing up to The Straits Times’ Headstart newsletter .
Q: I am hesitant to shout about my work achievements on social media. How can I do so without looking boastful? Is it possible to advance in my career without drawing attention to myself?
A: Hesitation often comes from a good place, especially in Singapore and much of Asia, where humility is deeply valued, says Ms Cindy Tan, a tech executive and author of a recently published book, Own Your Magic: How To Stand Out Without Selling Out.
But those who shy away from sharing risk becoming invisible, as silence can be mistaken for absence. “In today’s competitive market, being good at your job is necessary but not always sufficient. If you want opportunities to find you, people need to know not just what you do, but what you stand for,” she says.
The key is to avoid common missteps, such as making every post “all about me” and posting too often without a clear message.
“Posts grounded in reflection, gratitude, and lessons learnt tend to resonate far more deeply than simple announcements.”
She also suggests putting the spotlight on your team’s efforts as a way to build credibility without alienating others. When done well, sharing can add value – not just to your own brand, but also to your colleagues, company and industry.
Ms Serla Rusli, a LinkedIn career expert, also encourages people to reframe their mindset when it comes to sharing their thoughts with a wider network.
“When you share your unique insights, you are not just putting your voice out there, you are also helping others grow.”
She says it is important for people to focus on adding value to the audience they care about, and share their insights with conviction. “People respond to real stories, not polished pitches.”
She also encourages people to experiment with different formats, such as videos and newsletters, both of which are gaining popularity among users on LinkedIn.
“Building a strong presence online is about sharing what matters to you, and connecting with others in a way that feels real,” she adds.
Ms Tan also believes in being authentic and rooted in one’s values.
“Early in my career, I sometimes felt pressure to ‘act’ in order to be noticed, (but) it was tiring and hard to keep up,” she says.
The turning point came when she realised visibility is not about being louder, but clearer – in articulating her decision-making process, acknowledging her team’s contributions and explaining the impact of their work. “Visibility should be framed as service, not self-promotion,” she says.
It is important, though, that people tailor their approach depending on where they work and who they work with.
“In Western markets, being direct and assertive may be expected – sometimes celebrated. In Asia, subtlety and gratitude carry more weight.”
Still, the best practice is to remain authentic to your values while tailoring your style so that your message lands well in different cultural contexts, she advises.
And for those who feel really uncomfortable about drawing attention to themselves or their achievements, all is not lost.
Ms Tan says career progress is still possible with strong networks, solid performance and supportive mentors. Many successful leaders in Singapore also maintain a low profile.
That said, the professional landscape is shifting, with opportunities increasingly emerging from recruiter searches and regional or cross-border projects.
“If your presence is not visible beyond your immediate circle, you may be missing opportunities from other places.”
But everyone can start small. Just share one thoughtful post a month to reflect a lesson learnt or contribute to an industry conversation, Ms Tan says.
“Think of it as making your credibility discoverable, and when you are known as a thoughtful leader with valuable insights, that is a career multiplier.”
[SRC] https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/jobs/askst-jobs-how-to-stand-out-on-social-media-without-coming-across-like-a-braggart
