#53: Speak With Ease

Many of us are uncomfortable talking about ourselves, especially at events and during networking opportunities. As a shy extrovert, I used to find engaging with people I didn't know and talking about what I do and what I am passionate about very uncomfortable. But I also learned over the years, that being able to do this is critical to career success. This episode is for those of you that have the same experience. Because to be honest, connecting with other professionals, potential employers and mentors is one of the best ways to find that first HR role or level up your career to a new opportunity. So it is imperative that you get better at speaking with ease. Building your personal and professional network is a critical component of a successful HR career so embracing the skills and tools that make it easier earlier in your career will help you get better over time and help boost your confidence. In this episode, I am sharing some tips to help you get over the awkward moments and learn to promote yourself and speak with ease. Key points in this episode: There are two aspects to speaking with ease. First, there is what you say, second, there is how you say it. Developing an elevator pitch that highlights the value proposition you offer and the employer as well as where you are and where you are headed helps you prepare in advance of an event or networking opportunity. The elevator pitch can be used for networking, answering the Tell Me About Yourself interview question, or when you are setting up informational interviews. Preparation is half the battle. Prepare your elevator pitch and some possible questions to ask the people you are talking to. You should also prepare answers to questions you might be asked. How you show up physically also matters. Demonstrate confidence through your appearance, eye contact, smiling, and physical demeanor. Practice makes perfect! Conclude with a thank you that is short, sweet, personal and polite. :) Helpful links in this episode: Episode 5: Be Prepared and Ace the Interview Episode 41: Prepare for your HR Job Search Episode 4: Market Yourself for Job Search Success Episode 8: The Importance of Making Connections Episode 52: Why Job Targets Matter and How to Identify Them Sign up for the Newsletter to get notified of the HRCA Launch and remember your discount code HRMENTORPOD If you are feeling generous and want to send some love my way, I would be so very grateful for a review and a rating on Apple Podcasts or a recommendation on LinkedIn. And if you haven't yet, don't forget to subscribe to The HR Mentor so you never miss an episode on the following platforms: Apple Podcast Spotify Podbean And if you are serious about building your HR career and you want to support the HR Mentor, consider getting a membership. The HR Mentor Fan Club is a virtual space where you can get access to special bonus episodes of the podcast, resources, and free downloads as well as a chance to access special discounts on future programs. If you join today, you will get instant access to my decision-making tool to help you say no to activities that aren’t aligned with your values and goals and much more. You will also be eligible for an exclusive discount on the HR Career Accelerator program launching July 2022.