Is self-promotion evaluated more positively if it is accurate? It is, but modest claims are evaluated even more positively than self-promotional claims

Is self-promotion evaluated more positively if it is accurate? Reexamining the role of accuracy and modesty on the perception of self-promotion. Erin M. O’Mara, Benjamin R. Kunz, Angela Receveur & Sierra Corbin. Self and Identity, https://doi.org/10.1080/15298868.2018.1465846

Abstract: The present research sought to conceptually replicate and extend previous research showing that accurate self-promotional claims were associated with more favorable interpersonal evaluations than inaccurate claims, but that modest self-claims were evaluated most favorably. Across two experiments we found consistent evidence that a self-promotional claim paired with information that substantiates the claim is associated with more favorable interpersonal evaluations compared to when the claim is unsubstantiated. Despite proposed generational increases in narcissism and public venues for self-promotion, we found that that modest claims are evaluated even more positively than self-promotional claims. The discussion emphasizes the contribution of these findings to an understanding of the consequences of self-promotion.

Keywords: Self-promotion, modesty, self-enhancement, self-superiority, impression management