How to Build Confidence: Entrepreneurs, Try This Simple Confidence-Building Exercise at Your Next Networking Event by Leona Carter

Career
5 years ago

How to Build Confidence: Entrepreneurs, Try This Simple Confidence-Building Exercise at Your Next Networking Event

We all have been there: Someone asks for a volunteer to step up and our throats seems to drop into the pits of our stomachs. There is no way we could find the confidence to do such a thing, right? Here's a great tip in building your confidence: Lead with the 10 percent seeking to learn the 90 percent. 

What does that mean? Lead with the 10 percent of knowledge in the area of expertise that you have. Then seek to learn the 90 percent by asking questions once you get there.

Here's an example: Let's imagine you are going to a networking event with an engineering association. I know, just hear me out. Maybe this is not your area of expertise, but you are great at striking up conversation and connecting with new people. At this event, you introduce yourself to a total stranger and strike up conversation (the 10 percent) about who you are and what you do and how awesome it is to be at this event. Then you ask questions about what they do. They may tell you titles you never heard of, but you continue to ask questions (the 90 percent) about the job role, how they first started as an engineer, etc. 

By the time you get them teaching you about their world, you're going to be the confident genius they want to learn more about. Try it!

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Side Hustlers & Entrepreneurs: Here's Why You Need to Stop Putting So Much Pressure on Yourself

Secrets of Success: 11 Qualities of Successful Startup Founders & Entrepreneurs

Startup Secrets: My Top 7 Tips for Entrepreneurs to Launch a Successful Business (The Hustle Is Real!)

Nervous About Networking? 2 Tips to Help You With Your Pitch!

Elisa Schmitz
This is a great suggestion, Leona Carter ! I agree that asking questions is a great way to break the ice and get a conversation going. I also think it's good to practice your elevator pitch (no more than 30 seconds, natch) so you are prepared to describe yourself quickly if asked. Thanks for the awesome tip!
Leona Carter
Absolutely! That elevator speech is key along with other tools of building self-confidence. If you don’t know who you are as a mother, entrepreneur, executive, or CEO then society is quick to tell you who you are.
Sheri B Doyle
Leona Carter I love this sooo much! My background writing articles taught me how to get people talking about themselves. I love learning new things in the conversations, then when I need to strike up a conversation with someone else I can use the knowledge I just acquired. It also helps to be more comfortable at the next event we attend where we may be able to use this new knowledge.
Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds My husband has always said this about the elevator pitch, I definitely need to practice that. I watch him as he uses his and it is definitely a great way to inspire confidence.
Leona Carter
Very cool! I learned the sweetest sound to a person is their own name. That’s why individuals are so shocked in amazement when you remember their name, or call them by name. By the time you’re done with that networking event you will gain knowledge like you said and use it at the next event and you do that on a regular basis you’re going to seem like a little genius. You’re going to know so much about so many different topics that you’re able to hold a conversation. This absolutely builds your confidence.

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Your Best Self: 5 Reasons to Be the Best You Can Be at Work

How to Launch Your Own Merchandise Line: 8 Steps From Idea to Income

Looking for a New Job? Here's How to FOCUS on Your Career Goals!

Business Travel: How to Stay Connected With Kids When Traveling