I may be an over-sharer. Though, in many ways, I am not sure there is such a thing. I actually wrote a post about why I share, back when my youngest was sick.
If you’ve ever emailed me when I’m out of the office, you’ll be treated to a robust auto reply message telling you exactly what I am up to. You may hear about what group I am speaking with, what program I am delivering, or the destination of my latest vacation.
A few weeks ago, you all heard about my first college drop off.
It is so fun to get responses to my OOO email, it inevitably starts a conversation. One colleague responded with how great the habit was, and she was going to start doing that. She added, “Always be selling!”
I cringed when I read that. In my mind, I wasn’t selling, though I wouldn’t complain if someone asked me about the program I was running. In my mind, I was sharing. I was so uncomfortable with the response I felt compelled to correct her thinking and replied, “Always be sharing.”
I think we all have a little resistance to that self-promotion or that sales connotation. I conjured up the greasy used car salesman from the 80’s when I bought my first car. But I need to get over it.
It’s ok to share and it’s ok to sell. In relationship-based business, they are very similar.
I can put myself out there, without that mental chatter, because in my mind, what I’m doing is sharing what’s going on with me and what I’m excited about. If it generates curiosity and conversation, then all the better.
This works around the office too. If you’re working on something that you’re excited about, that you’re proud of, or something you have recently accomplished, don’t think that it’s bragging or boasting. Think of it as sharing.
Don’t worry if it feels a little self-promotional, that’s ok too. I prefer to think of it as subtle advertising. The truth is you are simply sharing your energy, excitement, and enthusiasm. And that’s contagious. So, what do you do next? Ask what they are excited about.
It’s a habit we all need to adopt. Anything you want to share with me? I’d love to hear about it!