Debunking the Myth: Why Coaching is Worth the Investment (Part 3)
The Momentum Files #40
This is going to (sham)rock your world!
Navigating any type of career transition (especially if you’re trying to do it alone!) can feel like waking up the morning after a rip-roaring St. Paddy’s Day celebration… head foggy, ears ringing, fully-formed thoughts not happening and – in some cases – a plastic glow-in-the-dark pair of shamrock-shaped glasses stuck to your eyebrows (no judgment… it happens!).
Which is why I’m about to shake things up just in time for St. Patrick’s Day!
I recently invited you – and my entire community – to ask me your biggest question around career transition or the job search process.
Mastering either of these things takes careful planning, smart strategizing and super-human levels of patience. It’s… a LOT to take on. Especially if you’re trying to work your way through it alone.
So, I offered to personally respond with thoughtful advice custom-tailored to your unique circumstances.
It was such a pleasure to make these personal connections and not the least bit surprising that this community shared such thought-provoking and interesting questions.
There was one question that popped up again and again – this is clearly on a lot of peoples’ minds and preventing professionals from confidently searching, networking, interviewing and developing their way into their desired career path.
How do I speak confidently about my skills and experience without bragging?
Here’s how to do it without the anxiety – even if you’re an introvert:
This common request (hello, job interview!) often sends chills up and down spines and fills people with dread.
It can be so darn uncomfortable to answer. Many of us – despite knowing what we do well – struggle to talk about this. How do you convey your strengths and skills without sounding like you’re bragging or egotistical? Which things are important to say?
Despite wishing that your resume, recommendations and work accomplishments could speak for you, there are times when you’ll be called upon to talk about this. And you can do it like a pro!
Reflect. Prepare. Practice.
Doing this well takes some preparation. But once you’re ready, you’ll be able to deliver your response confidently and so much more easily. You’ll also be able to custom-tailor your response to your current audience.
Start by reflecting on the following:
Where you’ve been
What you’ve done
When you’ve created an impact
Things you’ve accomplished that have made you proud
Situations that have provided the opportunity to lean into something
As you reflect, don’t shy away from the process. Don’t worry that you’re bragging or bringing ego into it. Just get it out. It’s important to recognize your contributions.
Once you’ve reflected and recognized your good work and growth (go, you!), practice talking about it out loud until it feels more natural and comfortable - and with practice, it will! You’ll notice less anxiety and uncertainty and more confidence and assuredness.
Here are additional tips and benefits:
Avoid the temptation to minimize your accomplishments and abilities. (You did it - so you get to own it!)
Aim to be memorable, professional and personable – whether interviewing, being introduced to new leaders, leading a presentation or networking.
Highlight skills that are practical, tactical and showcase your emotional intelligence and individual traits.
Make your skills transferrable – how can you apply them to a new space or position?
Understand your audience and adjust your message to speak their language.
Paint a clear picture by providing adequate detail.
And, it’s completely OK to feel proud about your experience and accomplishments. So I encourage you to smile and stand tall when you have the opportunity to share your amazing stories.
When you can confidently speak about your skills and experience, you make clear who you are, what you care about and what you can offer. No bragging or anxiety required.
Remember…
Reflect. Prepare. Practice.
Working your way to a higher-paying and more fulfilling professional role doesn’t have to feel like a foggy St. Paddy’s Day morning after.
If you’re ready to step out of that fog and find clarity, renewed excitement and the resources that are exactly what you need at this point in your professional journey… it’s your lucky day!
The inspiration, clarity and know-how you need are just a few clicks away. I welcome you to schedule a Get Acquainted call with me – our time together is complimentary, productive and pressure-free.
I’d love to connect with you and explore how together we can ignite your motivation to shake things up and pursue the professional opportunities that engage, thrill and inspire you!
Reply and let me know if you’ve found this helpful. I’d love to hear from you!