Ethics of Self-advertising

Recent developments and stirrings I've noticed in other people has compelled me to ask the question: "Is it enough to be good at certain things or should we make concious efforts to advertise ourselves?" The crux of the matter being whether or not its acceptable to possibly be seen as cocky or relying on others' observations. It's a difficult question to answer that requires a precarious balance between the two positions.

On the one hand, if you don't tell people that you're an excellent surgeon, guitarist, lawyer, or what-have-you, how would they ever know unless they were looking specifically for a good surgeon, guitarist, or lawyer? People find what they expect to find when they're looking for something. If you don't tell them what to look for, who will?

The other side of the coin is that, while this is great and socially accepted for products and whatnot, it might not be as acceptable for people. There is a big danger of being seen as a narcissist rather than someone who's good or confident. This might lead a lot of people to decide never to really advertise themselves. But is that so wise? Yes, I think that being seen as a narcissist is a bad thing, but I wonder if the risk of not being seen at all is worse. What is it that they say? Any press is good press?

But is that the name of the game we're playing? I would argue that it is. The world is becoming smaller and smaller with new technologies propelling us further and further every day. In such a world, where communication is ubiquitous and paramount, can we afford to not convey position?

I think the risk has to be taken. Is it vanity to want to be recognized for something you do well? Some people say yes. The question seems pointless so I'll just agree with it. Sure. Whatever. It's vanity. But we can be vain just as surely as we can be human. Why hide it? If you're worried about it, the best thing to do is try to establish some middle ground where people know about whatever unique skills you have but wouldn't call you an asshole for talking about them. And if they still think that you're being a douche then they're not worth it anyway. If anything it helps you recognize who you want to be around and who you don't.

So I guess to answer the question I somewhat posed above, I think that a middle ground should be established but I don't see the problem with people advertising themselves a little bit. Can those advertisements sometimes be in bad taste? Absolutely. And not everyone will agree with them or even like what's being sold. But think of it like this: If you see an advertisement on TV and you decide you don't like the product you don't buy it, right? Well, if people don't like what you're selling they won't bother with you anyway. So why not advertise yourself a bit? What's the worst that can happen?