Navigating Personal Milestones: When to Share Your Achievement with Your Audience
In the dynamic world of professional and creative pursuits, timing your announcements can significantly impact your relationships and personal brand perception. Recently, I found myself at a crossroads regarding communication strategy after being shortlisted for a prestigious literary award. This experience prompted me to reflect on the best approach to sharing such exciting news with my network, which primarily includes industry editors, professionals, and supporters.
The Scenario: A Prestigious Shortlisting
Imagine you’ve received a major recognition—being one of ten finalists for a notable literary accolade. Naturally, you feel eager to share this milestone. Traditionally, I would craft a celebratory newsletter to inform my contacts and post updates across my social media platforms. However, with the award ceremony scheduled for next week, I face a choice:
- Should I announce my achievement now, celebrating the nomination and giving my network a sneak peek into the excitement?
- Or should I wait until the official results are announced before sharing the news?
Possible Approaches to Sharing Your Achievement
There are generally two strategies to consider:
-
Immediate Celebration with Follow-up:
Send a newsletter currently announcing your shortlisting, emphasizing the honor and expressing gratitude for the support. Then, a week later, send a follow-up email sharing the outcome—whether you won or not—highlighting the experience and what it means for your journey. -
Waiting for the Official Result:
Hold off on sharing any news until the award winners are announced. At that point, craft a message celebrating your success or acknowledging the experience, regardless of the outcome.
Pros and Cons of Each Approach
Option A: Early Announcement with Follow-up
Advantages:
– Builds anticipation and engagement within your network.
– Keeps your audience informed and involved in your journey.
– Demonstrates transparency and authenticity, especially if your journey is ongoing.
Disadvantages:
– If the outcome isn’t favorable, it can feel like an anti-climax.
– The timing may create mixed reactions if news changes shortly after initial excitement.
Option B: Waiting for the Official Result
Advantages:
– Ensures your announcement aligns directly with the outcome, maintaining credibility.
– Avoids potential disappointment or awkwardness if the result is not as hoped.
Disadvantages:
– Might miss an opportunity to generate early buzz or support.
– Your audience remains in suspense longer, which can
