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Depending on your personality, you may be too shy to talk about your achievements, but our communications guru Nina Spencer says you have to be a relentless self-promoter of the things you do! Watch to find out why and how.

Declare your professional and personal value every day, even if only in secret. You might think it a bit arrogant to do this for yourself, yet you easily sing the praises of others you admire.

It's likely that your contribution at work and at home, isn't just okay; it's probably great. The trouble is, many feel it's conceited to herald the news of their own contributions. It's all right if another applauds your efforts, but it's an unwritten rule you're not supposed to do this for yourself.

These days are challenging and it's easy to feel knocked down occasionally; so now, more than ever, it's time to acknowledge what you do bring to the table every day. Be proud of your unique qualities, knowledge, skills and abilities, and cut yourself some slack, too, if you're periodically off-kilter or not going flat out 100% of the time.

No more hiding your talent light under a bushel. It's not conceit--it's good for your professional esteem and it's good for your organization, for you to know your value. Employers desperately need staff to understand their professional contribution, however modest or grand. This awareness not only elevates the individual's sense of empowerment, it also acts as a guidepost for others to do the same. And confident, assured employees help organizations move more efficiently and effectively towards their goals.

To quote Henry Van Dyke, "Use what talents you possess. The woods would be very silent if no birds sang there, except those that sang best."

To get a hit of the fine contribution you do make every day, be willing to acknowledge to yourself and to others, just how well you do what you do, by answering questions such as:

• What are my strengths/my assets?
• What do I do better than most?
• How have I grown this past year?
• What's the most valuable lesson I've learned so far this year?
• How am I applying that lesson?
• What's one of the most challenging things I've accomplished in this position?
• When it comes to my work, about what would I most like to receive compliments?
• When it comes to how I perform my work, about what am I proudest?