Earlier today I had the pleasure of connecting with an incredible CEO who I have been watching for a while. I reached out and suggested an official intro call. She welcomed the offer.
Even as we began to speak, she was concerned that she was speaking too fast, talking too much about her accomplishments and her company.
But...
That was exactly why I reached out.
She is a successful CEO.
I wanted to know more...all of it.
Her story, how/why she did it, new milestones.
I was genuinely interested and will be a customer. And you know me, I'll most likely promote/share her business 'just because'. One of my favorite things to do is promote people, ideas and companies I find fascinating.
So I asked her what I had to ask her...
❓Why give away your power?
I love to talk to successful people and hear how they did it.
❓Why apologize for answering a question?
I asked the question. Take all the time you want!
❓ Why be self-deprecating about the way and the speed with which you speak?
Be your genuine self and I'm even more interested and so is everyone else.
❓Why limit your powerful start up story if we are still listening?
I'm clinging to every word here, your story is fascinating!
❓ Why do you think talking about your successes is bragging?
I find it inspiring and appreciate you sharing what you learned along the way through your brilliant moves and your mistakes.
Many of us, yes, 'us', have been conditioned since childhood to say less, be quiet, don't talk about your successes, your dreams...
🌟And I'm calling Nonsense!⚡⚡⚡
For those that know me, if I want to talk to you, I want to hear it ALL!
The better I know you, understand your business, your 'Why', your clients, your vision, your mission...the better I can share you and your exciting company to others who will want to know you also.
So yes, I went into a minute of my Exec Coach mode and gave her full permission and a million reasons why she can and should speak with authority, no apologies!
Smart people like her get it quickly-she did and she thanked me. My pleasure... and then I think I did that thing where I said I'm sorry if I'm saying too much and we had to laugh about that.
And then she opened up and I learned so much more.
Friends, I implore you to:
💪Flex your strengths.
That's not arrogance, it's confidence.
And confidence builds trust in others, it's interesting, it adds value, and it's a great way to gain customers and followers.
Trust me, talking and thinking fast are part of my super powers. I get more done, in less time and we are all better for it. So if that's a bad thing boy am I in trouble!
Thank you, 'A' for making time for me out of your very busy day. I appreciate you, your time and I can't wait to learn even more.
We are #BetterTogether.
And the better we know each other, the more we care, respect and can contribute powerfully to each other.
With much respect
-Laurie
