As a career coach, I guide professionals through leadership challenges, career transitions, and confidence-building. But leadership isn’t just something I talk about—it’s something I actively practise in my own life.
Recently, I found myself stepping into one of those stretch moments: a Thursday night networking event in Canberra. I’d dressed up, packed some business cards, and arrived early… 20 minutes before my friend who had invited me. What happened next became a perfect reminder of the very lessons I coach others through every day.
Walking Into the Unknown
I was the first to arrive—and as I entered the venue, I noticed a large group of women already gathered. But they weren’t looking around or welcoming newcomers, and I wasn’t sure if they were the group I was joining.
So I wandered the venue. No other groups of women. I headed to the bar and asked—no one there knew anything about a networking event. I ordered a soda water and found myself a quiet table.
That’s when another woman walked in, scanning the room like I had. I gave her a small wave. She smiled, walked over, and introduced herself.
She was the organiser. And I recognised her instantly.
Connection Starts with Curiosity
I’d seen her give a TEDx talk years ago—eight years ago, as it turned out—and I told her how much I’d loved it. Her face lit up. She asked me what I remembered about it, and I was able to recall the key message. Watching her genuinely enjoy that moment reminded me how powerful sincere appreciation can be.
We had time to talk before the rest of the group arrived. She mentioned that there was someone in particular she thought I’d enjoy connecting with. Before long, another attendee arrived—another leadership coach. Rather than feeling like competition, our conversation flowed naturally, and we were both clearly happy to connect. There’s plenty of room at the table.
Soon, the woman I’d been encouraged to meet joined us. I told her the organiser had pointed me her way, and that sparked another warm, authentic conversation—this time with all three of us chatting, listening, and learning from one another.
Watching Leadership in Action
One of the women at the table confided that she was an introvert and really disliked networking. But as the evening unfolded, I watched her relax into the space. Then she surprised us all by suggesting a twist on the usual “introduce yourself and your business” format.
Instead, we each shared something that people wouldn’t usually know about us.
It was a beautiful moment of levelling the playing field.
We discovered one woman had watched every episode of a long-running soap opera. Another was a Beatles superfan. Someone else quipped that they were glad we weren’t talking about the insect. I shared that I love singing.
Everyone laughed, everyone connected—and the energy shifted in the best possible way.
Dinner, Laughter, and Real Conversations
We moved on to dinner, and it was one of those nights where the conversations felt easy and the company energising. When my friend eventually arrived, we flowed naturally between different groups, each person finding new connections and insights along the way.
By the end of the evening, I felt completely recharged—and genuinely excited about attending the next event.
What This Experience Taught Me (Again)
Even as a coach, I need to remind myself of the basics sometimes. That evening brought several lessons home:
- Leadership starts by showing up—even when you’re not sure how it will unfold.
- Authentic connection comes from curiosity, not credentials.
- Everyone has value to bring—sometimes they just need the right space to shine.
Practising What I Preach
It would’ve been easy to talk myself out of going that night. But I didn’t. I showed up. I trusted the process. And I stayed open to whatever the evening would bring.
That’s the kind of leadership I help others step into—and it’s the kind I’m always stepping into myself.
So if you’re on the edge of putting yourself out there—take the step. You might just walk into something wonderful.
Ready to Start Showing Up as a More Confident Leader?
About Me
As a career coach with decades of experience guiding professionals through transformative leadership journeys, I know that the most powerful growth often begins in the most uncomfortable moments. Whether it’s walking into a room of strangers or speaking up when it counts, these moments define your leadership story.
Let’s Connect and Grow Together
Your leadership potential is already within you—sometimes, it just needs the right environment to flourish. Empower yourself today with the clarity, confidence, and courage to show up fully and lead with purpose.
Inspirational Quote
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Final Thoughts
Leadership isn’t reserved for those with titles or loud voices—it’s built one intentional choice at a time. You are already more capable than you think. When you show up, listen deeply, and lead with authenticity, you inspire others to do the same.
Join the Conversation
Have you ever stepped into a room full of strangers, unsure how it would go—but walked away feeling energised and connected?
Share a time you showed up for your growth—whether it was a networking event, a new role, or a conversation that stretched your comfort zone. Let’s inspire and support each other to keep saying yes to opportunities that grow our confidence and leadership.
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