Self projection: Exposing the real deal

self projection Robert Gerrish Listening to comments at the Flying Solo LIVE! event, I was reminded of how quickly others draw opinions from what they see and hear, and what an important role self projection can play. Are you projecting the image you want others to observe?

Feedback regarding the event was delightfully very positive. As good little soloists, we welcome, read and pay attention to all feedback, whether it makes us whoop with joy or dive under the desk.

This missive is not about feedback though, it’s more about ‘feedforward’ - the impression people take from what they see.

Let me give you some examples that relate to three of our fabulous FS contributors, each of whom ran a session at Flying Solo LIVE!

Kate James explored ways to work healthily and minimise stress. I spoke to a handful of people who attended her presentation and each one remarked on Kate’s calming nature and relaxed style.

Kim McGuinness tackled face-to-face networking and emphasised the need to be natural and focus on building meaningful relationships. One comment I just read concluded, “My networking before her talk was pathetic. My networking after was fantastic.”

Last time I met with Kim she brought her 8 year old son to the meeting as he was sick from school. Not worrying about exposing ‘real life’ makes me admire Kim more now than I already did.

Heather Smith addressed the challenging topic of accounting and as anyone who’s met Heather will attest, she doesn’t do dull. She’s outgoing, entertaining and straightforward. Would I want to talk with her about my finances? You bet.

So, take a look at how your self projection and make sure the outside world is getting the real deal.

Thoughts? Comments? Dive in.

Love your work,

Robert Gerrish is Flying Solo’s managing director and founder and works as a business coach, professional speaker, business commentator and consultant. He’s the co-author of Flying Solo – How to go it alone in business.

22 Sep 09

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7 comments | Add your own

Hi Robert
I LOVED the day and the Speakers were brilliant. One thing I wanted to share was this. As soloists what we miss the most is interaction and the fact that the event was sold out demonstartes how much we want/need eachother. I wanted more time to talk and network with people as the only time was in between sessions and this was short. I spoke to a few people and I suggested it before and I know you have the forums, but Face to face time is so much better different than forum time. I thought how nice it would be if you guys "maybe I will when I get the time to do so) but to set up Flying solo chapters. IE i Live in Cremorne, I agree to set up a chapter in this area. What is needed i feel is a structured process to folow that needs to be developed. Ie Start with intorductions, Go round the table each person introduces them selves and does elevator pitch, then someone gets opportunity to present their business, Round the table Buisness problem question time and discussion, Small w/shop theme, ie How to design a elevator pitch. Opportinity swap session. Close of meeting. Flying solo to list Chapters on site and contact person. Allows flying solo members to get together more often..Just my thought.. Adam from Sydney
Hi Adam
Many thanks for your comment. Funnily enough we have precisely this concept in very early development. Our site is presently being redeveloped and our plan is to get this idea up and running to coincide with that. In the meantime, you'll notice a number of people setting up small groups via 'state specific' areas within our forums. So pleased you enjoyed the day. Robert Gerrish from Flying Solo | Read my articles
These tasters just convinced me (again) that we need one of these FS forums down here in Melbourne-town! Can't wait to see the notes from presentations but keen to hear whether others agree that a southerners forum would be well-attended/appreciated. Chris Black from Melbourne
Hi Adam,
Further to Robert's comments, some of the Sydney-based forum members are getting together for a drink on Friday 9th October at the James Squire at King Street Wharf, kicking off from 7pm or thereabouts.
Everyone is welcome, and you can register your interest here: http://www.flyingsolo.com.au/forums/nsw/156-drinks-sydney-flyingsoloists.html#post14397
Hope to see you there, Jayne - FS Concierge from Sydney
I didn't get a chance to be at the event but MY feedback/feedforward regarding your website/newsletters/business is.....relevant, well-planned and challenging. I read every article, recommend your book to friends and love your work. A big thanks! Rich from Sydney
Hi Adam,
Don't wait for someone to give you a structure - just do it! I set up a breakfast group in Glebe a couple of months ago which is attended by a few FS people (amongst others). It is going well and I agree face-to-face networking is still invaluable and strengthens online relationships. Bruce Robertson from Sydney
A good example is job interviews. Getting feedback from the agency afterwards regarding what the employer thought of you can be enlightening. You don't always come across the same way as you think you do. Arthur K from Melb

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