If you’ve met me, you probably don’t think I’m too shy. I’m generally outgoing in situations I feel comfortable in–and there’s a lot more than there used to be.
But there are three situations that–without a doubt–make me clam up.
- Someone recognizing me from my blog.
- Public speaking.
- Talking about myself. It’s one thing to write about myself, but I have a really hard time talking about myself. Probably because, having lived in D.C. and NYC, I’ve heard a lot of self-important people go on and on about themselves and I never want to be that person.
This morning, I got asked to speak on a panel at Columbia this weekend. It’s called Social Media for Bloggers: How Social Media Lets the Individual Compete Against the Big Brands, Plus Lessons Both Can Learn From Each Other, and I’ll be speaking from both perspectives–my personal social media use and my professional social media experience working as a social media specialist for Woman’s Day and ELLE. You know, if I don’t faint first. If you’ve done public speaking before, do you have any advice for me???
This afternoon, I went home at lunch to walk Bailey and some girl recognized me in my lobby. I probably came off as a huge bitch, but I am just really shy in those situations. I have no idea what to say to someone who already knows so much about me, and I know nothing about them. Other than, thanks!
I haven’t had a chance to work out yet, but I have walked three miles already on a gorgeous spring day in NYC, so there’s that.
I’ve gotten spotted a few times over the last few months and its SO unreal to me! I can’t believe that people a.) read my blog and b.) recognize me from it! Crazay.
That is SO awesome you’ll be speaking on that panel! You’ll do great!
I know. It’s like really? Me? You’re saying hello to ME? Are you sure?
The funniest thing about this is – I could have sworn I saw you at Physique a week or so back. I thought about saying hi, but then I turned “sorta shy.” No one wants a crazy person messing with their strength training 😉
Aw, you should have! Say hello next time!
Ah! I was the girl who recognized you. Sorry if it was weird, but I do love your blog, and wanted to let you know 🙂
haha, I’m really awkward too when someone recognizes me. It usually happens at the gym too so I see them over and over again… it never gets comfortable. Makes me want to reconsider youtube videos…
I’ve always wanted to recognize a blogger (you or Fit Chick in the City) but because I think it’s cool that we live in the same city. However, I don’t think I’d have the guts to say anything to you.
As for the presentation: PRACTICE. And make sure you know what you’re talking about (obviously you will). But I mean, know what you’re gonna say and be prepared. Have note cards but try to keep them away and not focus on them. Just one more thing to worry abou and probably trip you up. I always have to wear my hair back to keep me from absent mindedly playing with it. LOOK confident and stand straight with both feet flat. If you think you are going to be tempted to play with you nails or fingers/hands keep them in or on the podium if you are given one; it will be much less obvious that you are doing fidgeting (even just putting them in/on the podium might keep you from playing or make you a little more comfortable…I NEVER know what to do with my hands).
Ummmm I think thats all I’ve got! Hahaha good luck!
Ooh maybe I’ll come here you speak at Columbia! Don’t be nervous, I’m sure you’ll do great. And I love your blog! I’m proud to be your newest follower! Hope you’ll check out my blog and consider following me too 🙂
xoxo Lauren
 http://happylifeinnyc.blogspot.com/
I end up speaking a lot for both my full-time job and one of my part-time jobs. The biggest thing that helped me be more confident was just to be honest. I tell people, “I’m no expert.” Heck, my degree’s in math, not journalism. But here’s who I am, what I do, and what I’ve found. Somewhat ironically, you sound self-important only when you talk about your way as if it’s “the only” or “the right” way. When you just talk about yourself and speak from personal experience, you come off less self-aggrandizing. (Also, I’ve always wanted to write that phrase. Thanks for the opportunity!)
that’s awesome!!! I’m always scared about meeting other bloggers – granted it’s always a lot of fun but I’m just really shy when it comes to meeting new people 😐
Practice, practice, practice! If I’m going to make a speech I practice at home the night before. It really does help. I like to just write bullets if it’s a more casual feel but if it’s a BIG speech, I write the whole thing out.
If you speak like you write, you will be just fine. You have a great blog.