What do you do if you want to build strong professional connections through assertiveness and confidence?

-Clear Communication: Be articulate in expressing your thoughts, ideas, and needs. active listening to understand others' perspectives -Genuine Interest: Show interest in others by asking questions about their work, experiences, and interests -Proactive Approach: Take initiative in reaching out to others and initiating conversations. Attend networking events, join professional groups -Confidence in Yourself: Believe in your abilities and strengths. Confidence in yourself will attract others and make them more receptive to building connections with you 5-Follow-Up and Follow Through: with your contacts to maintain the connection. Share relevant resources, congratulate them on their accomplishments, or suggest opportunities for collaboration

Building self-awareness can be enhanced by seeking feedback from colleagues and mentors. This feedback can offer insights into how others perceive your strengths and areas for improvement. Additionally, maintaining a reflective journal where you regularly record your thoughts and reactions to professional situations can help you identify patterns in your behavior that you may want to change or develop further.

Define what you want to achieve through your professional connections. Whether it's finding mentors, advancing your career, or expanding your network, having clear objectives will guide your interactions.

Assert yourself confidently yet tactfully. "Confidence breeds trust." Actively listen, be present, and maintain eye contact during interactions. Speak clearly, concisely conveying your ideas. "Assertive communication is key." Decisively take initiative on projects/tasks. Advocate for your team. Build rapport by complimenting others authentically. "People will go the extra mile for leaders who make them feel valued." Network proactively at events. Follow up promptly. Foster an environment of open dialogue. "The quietest people have the loudest minds." Radiate positive energy and passion. Lead by example with integrity.

If you feel self-doubt when trying to speak up in a professional setting, you can start by challenging your inner voice that holding you back. Instead of fearing judgment, you can focus on contributing valuable insights during meetings. Preparation is the key. I always research topics beforehand, formulate my thoughts, and actively participate in discussions. I remember in the early stage of my career as a tech career coach, during a brainstorming session for a new coaching program, I initially hesitated to share my ideas. However, I took a deep breath, and presented my well-researched suggestions, and the team responded positively, appreciating the new perspective.

El lenguaje corporal hace parte de nuestra comunicación no verbal. Así no hablemos siempre estamos comunicando algo a través de nuestras expresiones faciales, postura corporal, movimiento de brazos y manos y nuestra mirada. El 55% de nuestra comunicación es a través del lenguaje corporal. El mensaje que transmitimos con nuestra corporalidad debe coincidir con nuestro mensaje verbal para no generar falta de credibilidad.

Confidence isn't just about talking, it's about genuine engagement and active listening. I improved my active listening skills by paying close attention to what others were saying, asking clarifying questions, and acknowledging their contributions. This builds trust and helps for a deeper connection. During professional networking events, I actively listen to my others' career aspirations, challenges, and skillsets. By showing genuine interest and building rapport, I create a safe space for open communication and collaboration.

Confidence often comes from expertise. Therefore I am committed to continuous learning, attending industry conferences, enrolling in online courses relevant to Data science and tech career coaching, and staying up-to-date on the latest trends in the tech industry. Continuous learning helps us with the professional growth as well for the personal branding.