Always Interview-Ready: The Power of a ‘Brag Folder’

How easily can you answer the following:

What are you awesome at?

What is your superpower?

How would your coworkers describe you?

What did you achieve in the past six months?

If you were in an interview tomorrow (or even your review), could you answer these questions easily? If the answer is no, keep reading.

During a performance review, a wise boss told me I was underselling myself. He pointed out three significant achievements I’d been part of but had yet to mention. His advice? Start a ‘brag folder’. And now, I want to share why this could be a game-changer for you.

Ok, “BRAG” Might Sound Over the Top (you might call it an accolades list, or wins or hurdles)… But stick with me on this. Imagine getting a call for a job interview out of the blue tomorrow. Would you be ready? Being prepared is about more than just having your CV up to date. It’s about knowing your worth, your journey and being able to talk about it.

The Real Struggle

Talking About Your Achievements It’s a common problem. Many of us, even those with years of experience, need help to discuss our strengths and successes. We risk giving generic answers that don’t stand out. My boss noticed I was doing this, and that’s when I learned about the ‘brag folder’.

What Exactly is a brag folder?

It’s not just a list of things you’ve done. It’s a tool that serves three primary purposes:

• Positive Reinforcement:
  • Note down shoutouts from team meetings.
  • Save those thank-you emails.
  • Email yourself awards or recognitions.
  • Track your project goals and outcomes.
  • Record when you’ve taken on and used feedback.
• Identifies Areas for Growth: It’s not all about the wins. Keep track of feedback and areas you’re working on. It shows you’re committed to getting better.
• It helps you remember all the great stuff you have done and things you overcame (when you are busy, you can often overlook significant achievements or underplay them when you can’t recall the qualitative or quantitative data available to back it up)

Need help creating the perfect resume and cover letter?

Why Bother with a ‘Brag Folder’?

• Self-awareness: It gives you a clear picture of what you’re good at and where you can improve.
• Always Ready: With a ‘brag folder’, you’re always ready for that unexpected job interview or opportunity.
• Proof: It’s not just about talking a good game. Your ‘brag folder’ shows what you’ve achieved and how you’ve grown.
• It helps your craft your cv
• It enables you to get prepare for the interview
• It helps you when it comes time to ask for a pay review or promotion

With your folder in hand, you’ll be ready to answer other questions like:

• “What’s your standout professional skill?”
• “How would your team describe your contribution?”
• “Tell me about the feedback you’ve acted on.”
• “Describe a project you’re proud of.”
• “How do you work with others?”

Having this at your fingertips means you’re always prepared, especially when opportunities come knocking.

Keeping track of your achievements and areas for growth is essential. If you still need to start your ‘brag folder’, now’s the time. It’s about being ready for whatever comes next in your career.

So, are you keeping track of your wins and learnings? If not, it’s time to start.

Check out my ‘Services’ Page for more information on how I might support you.

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