Unafraid, Unashamed and Unapologetic

Unafraid, Unashamed and Unapologetic…

These are the three descriptors that our Mujeres de HACE session leader Tanesha Pittman, used to describe fearless networking during one of the training sessions on May 18, 2011.

How do others perceive you when you walk into a networking event?  Do you exude confidence?  Or, are you perceived as shy and weak?  As I sat in on the very engaging discussion, Tanesha’s descriptors were right on as to what it takes to exude confidence at any networking event. It's all in efforts of building effective partnerships and mentors.  I decided to share my thoughts on Tanesha’s infamous powerful three descriptors on networking effectively.

Be Unafraid. Many times, we are afraid of taking risks. This prevents us from gaining the powerful networks and opportunities needed to reach our goals. Whether it is taking on a new opportunity to lead a committee or apply for that leadership program. For example, you need to ask yourself if you are taking on the necessary risks to reach your goals and objectives.  Will you take on the next project or finally talk to the CEO in the elevator?  Don’t be afraid!

Be Unashamed. Are you authentic to who you are and what you bring to the table?  It is important to ensure that you are confidently exuding who you truly are.  If you are at a networking event and lied about what your skills are, it is exhausting and will come back to haunt you.  With social media and other outlets, networks are smaller than ever and you never know who knows who.  Discover who you are and be proud of that.

Be Unapologetic. “I’m so sorry to interrupt, but...”  Have you ever started a conversation with this or a similar phrase?  Stop it!  Being apologetic when not needed and constantly being apologetic diminishes your credibility and expertise.  Many times, this will exude a lack of self-confidence.  Know your stuff and why you are approaching to talk to someone confidently.  One of the examples given last night was to start a conversation by taking notice of something unique of that individual’s attire. Is there a unique necklace or purse that you can comment on?

Towards the end of the session, Tanesha asked two volunteers to be unafraid, unashamed and unapologetic by demonstrating effective networking.  Maria Cabadas with ComEd, shared her passion of helping children with disabilities and asked how she can help her “networking partner.” Hilda Soriano, who through her experience and work in HR, helps others achieve their goals and objectives because of her passion in helping others.  In a matter of seconds, we knew what their passion was. They did a great job and as everyone else in the session, will take on their new tools to practice at various networking events.  Check out our website for information on our upcoming HACE networking opportunities on May 26th and June 10th.

Thank you to Tanesha Pittman and congratulations to our Spring 2011 Mujeres de HACE class on making it halfway through the program!!

--Patricia Mota, HACE's Director of Membership Outreach