Stepping into Uncharted Territory ...

You will never know you can (or can't) until you try ... the banner includes photos taken during my emceeing gigs. A newfound experience! The first one, was a first for me, to emcee a formal event, that included high-level guests. My name was proposed and somehow because the host insisted that I would be the emcee, I agreed out of respect, but I had never tried that before, even in a family event. The second was similar, a graduation event, again, which had a diverse guest list and the host insisted that I emcee because she was an attendee in the first event and saw me do it live, even though it was the first time... according to her, I was a natural ...

Well, like me, you may have found yourself on new and unfamiliar ground, where you are put in the spotlight and it feels like a make or break situation, especially because there no time to rehearse, and you have no experience to back it up.

The one thing you should avoid if possible is to turn down the offer because you have no experience... everyone grows, and nobody starts at the top. There are numerous opportunities out there and they need people who are courageous, inquisitive, avaiavilable and willing to learn.

So, how do we handle these uncharted territories:

1. Research:

Research and do more research ~ If it is an event like the one I was invited to emcee, find out more about your host, the celebrants, the occasion, the theme, what they would like to include in the program, the kind of guests expected, etc... if its a new job or consultancy opportunity, research about the company, mission, vision, the management, understand the assignment fully. Take the time to gather information about the task or role, which involves understanding the context, relevant terminology, and best practices associated with it.

It may be the first time, but don't let it be the last!

2. Leverage transferable skills:

You may not have experience in that area, but what specific skills can you bring to the task that will be useful to help you succeed? I have been hosting the All Staff Calls in our organization, and when I was requested to emcee the events, I figured, it couldn't be so different, only that I have a completely different and unfamiliar audience. My communication skills and the ability to connect with people helped a great deal.

It's important that you identify and highlight any skills from your previous experiences that can be applied to the new task. For example, if you have a background in marketing and are transitioning to a sales role, emphasize your communication skills and ability to understand customer needs.

3. Stay Positive and Open-Minded:

Don't tell yourself how you're the wrong fit for the job and what if you fail ... what if you succeed? Maintain a positive attitude and be open to learning from mistakes. Embrace the unfamiliarity as an opportunity for growth. Take every opportunity as a learning opportunity, and make the subsequent better than the first!

I went into these two events, telling myself that I would be amazing, and thankfully, I received such great feedback from the audience. A few people walked up to me after the events to appreciate me and just to let me know that I did such an awesome job. That's all I needed, and I know the next one will even be better!

4. Seek Guidance and Mentorship:

This is critical for a new role. Don't hesitate to reach out to colleagues, mentors, or professionals in the field for advice. Have someone handhold you and show you the ropes of the game, either internally or externally. Engaging with someone who has experience can provide valuable insights and shortcuts to understanding the task at hand. For instance, if you're new to project management, consider asking a seasoned project manager for tips on managing timelines and stakeholder expectations.

My first few years in HR would have been extremely difficult and full of mistakes if I didn't have a mentor in the workplace to hold my hand and give me feedback consistently on how I was doing and what I could do differently. I highly value those early foundational years, because they have had such an impact in my HR journey.

I will leave the points at 4 because my daughter loves even numbers :). I would also love to hear from you. What has worked for you or what can you add from your own experience in unchartered waters?

#LeadingDaily.

Yours truly,

Terry