• Dare I offer my ideas to others?
  • Why should they care about my getting a new client?
  • Do they have time for me to read my writing?
  • Can they relate to my POV?
  • Who am I to offer them this advice?
  • Should I be suffering from imposter syndrome?

These are fundamental questions clients ask me when I implore them to post their activities, thoughts, and successes on LinkedIn. It shows me the danger of teaching children to sit quietly and not comment. That was my history, yet all my report cards show I was vocal. Too much, but teachers could never change me.

So as I edged into my new areas of work, that changed with the jobs and industries I participated in, I retained the skillsets that I carried with me wherever I went. Adapt, adopt, coopt. Speak, debate, applaud.

I made it my self-mission to write in trade magazines and speak publicly in my industry conferences to meet the best, hobnob with other speakers who were top in their fields, network up to the gurus, and so I did rise to their level by association and conversation. It took a lot of my time, tumbles and reinstatement, all an investment in my development.

I began to be sought for my POV. I gave it, unabashedly. Sometimes too. But I was asked and therefore honestly retorted.

So I never wonder who cares about what I produce. I earned it. I am worth it.

You are too.

Those questions I started this blog post with? Trash that “why little me” attitude and adopt the one that shows what you have much to share, offer it, and put forth innovative ideas as they rise to be accepted and appreciated (you’ll know when either of these happen). Build on it. They will come gather ‘round.