Written by: Natalie Gray, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Uncover the power of a brag folder in shaping your career across various roles in big tech, from engineering to marketing, and how it prepares you for success. If you're navigating the competitive landscape of big tech companies like FAANG, knowing your worth and being able to talk about it simply and directly matters—a lot.
Whether you're aiming for a promotion or looking to make a lateral move, being prepared is half the battle. If listing your professional wins and strengths doesn't come easily or if you find yourself stumbling to recall specific achievements, it's time to consider a brag folder.
Before we dive in, let's get real for a second.
Can you quickly and confidently talk about what makes you great at your job?
Do you know what unique contributions you've made recently?
How would your team describe your impact?
You're in the right place if you're scratching your head over these.
The brag folder: Not just for bragging
A brag folder isn't about tooting your own horn without cause. It's a curated collection of your career highlights and learning moments that serve several crucial purposes, no matter your role in big tech. This goes for folks in UX design, data analysis, project management, and beyond. It's your personal highlight reel that proves you're not just walking the walk—you've got the receipts to show for it.
Now, if the term "brag folder" makes you cringe a bit (let's be honest, "bragging" doesn't always have the best connotation, does it?), feel free to give it a makeover. How about "Key Accomplishments File," "Feedback and Development Log," or simply "Career Highlights"? Whatever you call it, the essence remains the same: it's all about having a tangible record of your awesomeness and growth areas. Think of it as your professional diary, where every entry is a step toward your next big achievement. So, call it what you will—what matters is that you start one.
Why it's a must-have
Celebrates Your Journey: Keeps track of your accomplishments and lessons learned, offering a balanced view of your professional growth.
Spotlights Your Value: Helps identify your standout skills and areas where you shine the brightest.
Keeps You Ready: Whether it's a surprise job opportunity or a sudden performance review, you'll have your key points ready to go.
Gathering and using feedback effectively
One of the brag folder's secret sauces is the collection of feedback, both positive and constructive. Here's how to get started:
Save Those Kudos: Keep a folder for emails or chat messages where colleagues or managers have given you props. This isn't just for a confidence boost; it's tangible evidence of your impact.
Look for Patterns: Start noticing how people describe you in these messages. Do certain strengths or skills keep popping up? This can give you great insight into how you're perceived professionally.
Ask Directly: Don't shy away from asking colleagues, "What's one skill you think I excel at?" Compare their answers with your self-assessment to see if there's alignment or surprise talents you've overlooked.
Consider 360 Reviews or Assessments: If your company offers 360-degree reviews, jump on it. Or look into reputable personality or skill assessments (conduct research and choose one that fits your needs, like Myers Briggs or EverythingDisc). These can offer valuable outside perspectives on your strengths and areas for growth.
Making the most of your brag folder
Start Collecting Now: Begin with any recent praise or feedback you've received. LinkedIn recommendations, project successes, and even informal "good job" messages count.
Keep It Organized: Regular updates and a simple organization system will make it much easier to pull out specifics when you need them.
Use It to Plan Your Growth: Don't just look back; look forward. Use your brag folder as a tool for setting career goals based on your documented strengths and the feedback you've received.
Empower your career story
With a brag folder in hand, you're not just ready for your next performance review or job interview; you're stepping into it with a clear understanding of your professional narrative. You know what you've achieved, how you've grown, and where you're headed. And you can communicate it in a straightforward, confident manner that resonates.
Final thoughts
No matter where you're headed in the vast world of big tech, a brag folder is your compass. It's a practical, powerful way to track your progress, understand how you are perceived, and identify where you can make your next leap.
So why wait? Start building yours today and take control of your career trajectory.
Natalie Gray, Executive Contributor, Brainz Magazine
Natalie Gray is a skilled Leadership & Career Development Coach; her unique no-nonsense approach helps clients get clear on their vision, take action, and stay committed to progress. Natalie uses her extensive senior leadership experience in fast-paced global corporations to help executives succeed in their business and career goals. Following ICF endorsed professional coach training, Natalie draws on her talent for helping others connect the dots in both their personal and professional life, enabling clients to move forward with confidence, clarity, and a holistic strategy.
With 15 years of experience in innovative, growth-driven organizations such as Facebook and Cisco, Natalie is ideal for drawing on her business knowledge, extensive training, and natural communications skills. With Natalie’s understanding of growing and excelling in complex organizational structures, she helps clients see their opportunities from a different perspective, drawing upon her industry insights to uplevel her clients.
In short, Natalie brings out the best in people, ensures revitalized progress, and helps clients get to clear, measurable results.
