In the corporate world I was known for being the WORST interviewee. I remember a colleague told me once, ‘Shawn, you could interview yourself right out of any job that you were perfect for.’ And he was right.

If we were able to ‘change the environment’—to recognize everyone for their unique strengths and contributions, to celebrate someone who was willing to take a risk—would this ‘imposter syndrome’ disappear altogether?

I don’t give them anything they didn’t already have—including their own answers. I just help them with their view.

The first step to creating a winning team is to set them up to WIN!

It reminds me of what it must be like to have Superman or Wonderwoman for a client…

She was talking to me I realized as I stood staring at the television. ‘And most of all,’ she said, ‘don’t wait to be given power.’ The voiceover stopped and she looked right at me and said, ‘You already have it.’

If the goal is to leave a good and lasting impression, it’s really not about what you say—it’s about how you show up. So for her and for anyone who is anxious about ‘making a good impression’ at a networking event—relax. Be yourself. And keep in mind a few simple rules for ‘showing up’.

At this point I’m blown away. What an impressive young woman. What a perfect example of having Clarity, Courage, Confidence and Power.

I thought about how much her employer has invested in her over the years.  The experiences and opportunities they’ve provided, the training, mentoring, coaching—all to develop this amazing, confident female leader that they’ve only to tap on the shoulder to get so much more out of.   

For me what I’ve realized is that Taking a Break isn’t a luxury, it’s a critical element to the day if I’m going to be effective.