In speaking with a client this week, they shared that one of their talent philosophies in their organisation is about a “big bet.” That is, if there is a significant jump to recommend for a promotion, it’s referred to as a “big bet.”
Gambling is not my thing; however, I really like the notion of a big bet.
When someone else is placing a big bet on us, their recommendation about a promotion or a pay rise means they are willing to take a risk on us. They are prepared to place this bet based on an anticipated return. Hopefully, this translates to us excelling at the promotional jump and, as a result, helping them feel that the bet placed on us was worthwhile.
How often do we place a “big bet” on ourselves?
Many of us don’t. Researchers found that a high proportion of us experience Imposter syndrome. This can impact our ability to see ourselves as ready and even worthy of a new job, promotion, or pay rise. Imposter syndrome isn’t new. Surprisingly researchers first used the term back in 1978. This self-doubt that is a characteristic of imposter syndrome can have significant consequences on development and progression.
So why is it that others see something in us that warrants taking a risk? Are we stopping to notice what they see? Are we asking them? Are we considering what taking a risk on ourselves would mean?
We may find that we regularly leave the instigation of promotion and recognition for ourselves to others, and this may come from a mindset of waiting to be noticed. Not drawing too much attention to oneself; for fear of judgment.
So how can we take a big bet on ourselves?
1. Know the value you bring.
What’s unique to you?
What value do you contribute that others cannot because they’re not you?
What do you know, and how do you use that to help others?
2. Balancing confidence and humility.
If you’re worried that becoming more confident will make you less humble, the very fact that you have thought suggests you have nothing to worry about!
You do you. Your authenticity will guide your level of comfort in balancing confidence and humility.
Being confident is about being assured in the value you bring, and you can offer this value in a way that is about being in service.
3. Focus on you as a brand.
Brands are known for what they represent.
Spend time considering what represents you.
What’s your personal impact statement?
What are your key signature behaviours that make you uniquely you?
In considering whether you want to place a big bet on yourself, you’ll no doubt be considering the ratio of risk and reward. What do you gain by putting yourself out there? What could be lost? How big is the potential reward? What would it mean to you now and into the future?
You can wait for others to place a big bet on you; however, I think that no one can do this better for YOU, than YOU.
Are you ready to place a big bet on you?
Rita Cincotta writes, mentors, and speaks on individual and team performance, leadership development, resilience and new ways of working. She works with organisations to develop human centred solutions that help people and businesses to thrive.