Very few of us can honestly say we love entering a room full of people we’ve never met, knowing it’s part of the job to form some kind of memorable connection with as many folks as possible. For many of us it comes naturally, but that still doesn’t mean we love it. Over time I’ve formed a mantra for life that says ‘being good at something doesn’t mean you have to do it’ and I’ve found a great deal of freedom in it. I’ve stopped volunteering for things I know I can do easily just because I can, and it’s allowed me the time and energy to do what brings me the greatest joy. Or to do things my own way. It’s kind of like growing up a little bit, becoming confident enough to no longer find personal value from doing something well and receiving the pat on the back. Instead, doing the things I enjoy, for no other reason. That mentality has brought me more ease when it comes to networking. Understanding that I, like everyone else in the room have something to share. That the conversation I start will resonate with someone, and so, just being true to myself instead of putting on a front. Sure, I still ask questions about things I don’t know about, that’s curiosity! And of course I express interest in things I know I won’t likely pick up as hobbies, but again, that’s not inauthentic, it’s kind. And make no mistake, I’ll take a pat on the back any day…I’m just no longer dependant on it. Sharing about the genuine wall that women have to let down and the feeling of vulnerability they have to accept in order to… as Merryl Streep says ‘speak woman instead of man’ was a very cool opportunity. I’m grateful to Calix for holding space for real conversations. Proud to sit beside you Allison Boudreau Christina Wilson Dr. Karen Bartuch, MA Karen has some great words about networking, take a read!
Marketing and Brand Leader | Vice President Marketing | Insights & research driving digital growth strategy | TEDx | Startup Advisor | Performance beyond expectations via transformational leadership
#Networking Tips & Tricks! Had the honor of moderating this panel, Networking with Confidence, last week for the Calix Women’s Employee Resource Group meeting. Such great insights from our amazing panel: - Tiffany Shurr - be yourself authentic self, it’s ok to not know the football stats, be true to yourself - Christina Wilson - build rapport in unique ways such as her deep knowledge of heirloom tomatoes that recently resonated with our customer - Allison Boudreau - be brave enough to suck at something the first time you do it. #micdrop See my article on the comments on networking ⬇️⬇️⬇️ And share your networking tips and tricks below!
I enjoyed this session so much. Tiffany your comments around being authentic and not trying to perform on a level that isn't true to who you are was such a good share. The visual of the push up challenge stuck with me. I don't sports but I am interested in people and I am curious. So I cant start there and as you shared "choose to have the strength to do it."
Thanks for the incredible session Tiff! I love your perspective and always learn through your experiences and stories!
Amazing perspective - thanks for sharing so candidly, Tiffany Shurr !!
Chief Marketing Officer at Highline Internet
1moAwesome feedback Tiffany! I love how you openly share with others to encourage them to do the same!