I’m an introvert.

People laugh at me when I tell them this and think I must be joking.

They see me delivering a training program or speaking up in a meeting, or working the room at a networking event, and they think I must be an extrovert.

I am not.

But I have figured out how to stand out.

I frequently coach introverted clients to help them figure out how to stand out to advance their careers authentically.

So, I thought I would share with you my strategy for standing out…without passing out!

DECIDE
Decide to leave your comfort zone.  If you’re comfortable, then you’re not learning.  The more you are willing to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, the more you will learn.  And your comfort zone will expand!

PLAN
Develop a plan of action to help achieve your goals.  Did your boss tell you that you need to speak up more in meetings to be perceived as a leader?  Then look at your calendar for the meetings where you would benefit the most by increasing your visibility and voice.  Do you need to expand your network?  Then plan to spend a certain number of hours every week on networking.

PREPARE
Do your research.  Make a list of questions you want to ask or insights you can offer at your next meeting.  Research networking events that are the best fit for you and identify who will be attending.  Come up with questions you can ask them to get the conversation started.

RE-ENERGIZE
Introverts are fully capable of doing extroverted things; it just takes a much larger toll on our energy.  We’re exhausted and need time to recoup that energy.  Ensure you block off time to be alone and re-energize after doing something outside of your comfort zone.

I hope this helps all you introverts out there!  Let me know how else I can support you!

Wishing you the best!

P.S. Check out my group coaching program for women starting in April.