'Go to' people have an advantage.
All around the world, for every industry, topic, problem or idea, there are ‘go to’ people.
When you are the ‘go to’, you are the first people turn to when they need what you offer. Maybe it’s your expertise, opinion, a product or service.
Being the ‘go to’ is being the Google of search engines, the Apple of smart phones, the Netflix of streaming services.
The ‘go to’ of choice won’t be the same for every single person. However, the greater the number of people who have you at the top of their list, the greater your success.
So, how do you become the ‘go to’ for as many people in your target audience as possible, for the reasons you desire?
5 ways to maximise your impact.
- Begin with a strong ‘why’.
Ask yourself some important questions. And, spend time on them.
- What is your vision?
- What are your values?
- What do you really believe in?
- Why are you doing what you do?
- Why does it matter?
- Why should people care?
Every powerful voice has a strong ‘why’ so it’s crucial to spend time getting clear on the reasons behind your goals.
Being convinced yourself is the first – and most necessary – step toward convincing others that your message matters. They must believe you.
- Embrace your uniqueness.
All great Origineurs make the most of their uniqueness. No one else has your exact blend of knowledge, skills and experience. No one else has your exact personality, style and voice. This uniqueness is your greatest strength.
It’s easy to undervalue just how much you have to offer the world or miss something that’s an important part of your story and an opportunity to connect with your audience meaningfully.
So, map out all the things that make you an Origineur onto paper. Get a sheet and get down the key things you’ve learned and experienced, however big or small.
Look at how they connect to your goals and what you want say. Consider how you could use these stories to build a meaningful rapport with your audience.
- Know your circle of expertise.
- What do you know best?
- What are your strengths?
- Where does your experience lie?
- What is your unique take on all this?
Be equally open about your gaps and weaknesses. What do you need to work on? Where do you need support?
To come across as sure of what you’re talking about and earn trust, you need to speak from your place of expertise. Work to expand that circle when it’s core to your ambitions, and collaborate with other people where you need to.
Your audience will respect you for being open about what you don’t know and being confident to work with others.
- Know your objectives every time you communicate.
What do you want people to know, feel and do as a result of what you say? You don’t have to spend hours rehearsing – not unless you have a very important speech – but even a few minutes will help you focus and will ensure clarity for your audience.
- Know your audience.
Understand your audience’s challenges, pain points, desires and ambitions. Spend time exploring this and going deep into each area so you truly understand your audience.
People will listen when you are talking about the things they care about, especially when you could be solving something that’s a big problem for them.
And, they will listen even more intently when they know you truly care about what matters to them too
Don't let confidence hold you back.
If you have any doubts about yourself, remember that you’ve got to where you are now for a reason.
Legendary investor Warren Buffett grew up terrified of speaking publicly, once telling the BBC that the prospect scared him to the point of throwing up. Given the incredible influence he’s had in the investment world, this fear is hard to imagine.
However, recognising his weakness early on, Buffet took a public speaking course and worked on his communication skills. Alongside his expertise, the confidence this gave him has been fundamental to his success. So much so that he once said his public speaking certificate is the only one displayed in his office. It says something when someone instrumental in generating billions of dollars, values great communication so highly. It’s a gamechanger.
Your visibility and the way you communicate matters. Keep working at it. Turn up for your audience regularly. Make an impact. These are vital keys for achieving your ambitions and unlocking great success.
You are an Origineur. Your voice matters.
Key takeaways.
- If you want to become a leading voice in your industry, being visible matters. Know your circle of expertise and zone in on that. You can also expand on it in line with your ambitions.
- When you become a credible voice in your industry, you win trust. This trust is vital to achieving your goals.
- Be clear on your objectives when you communicate. Know your audience. Talk to their challenges, pain points, desires and ambitions. But, be authentic.