Happy Thursday! This month, I’m covering why it’s critical for organizational leaders to think strategically about super-casual conversations that happen every day. Here’s what you need to know in under 2 minutes…

What tech leaders should be thinking about this week: Re-thinking how to (more casually) introduce yourself. I’m amazed how often folks in tech are asked to introduce themselves. Whether it’s a meeting with internal partners, the beginning of a big project, or starting an interview with an external candidate, we’re constantly asked to “tell us a little about yourself/your team.” Most Type-A tech professionals fumble this opportunity by reiterating their title, showcasing their tenure, or diving right into their daily task list. Everyone all-at-once: Yawn!

Why this is important: The tech introduction is a perfect opportunity for leaders to intentionally define how they’re creating impact and inspiration. With impressions defined in the first 45 seconds of an interaction, leaders can proactively set a picture that screams “Wow, this person is amazing” or “What’s their name again?” Literally telling key partners what strategy you’re influencing, what problem you’re solving, or what you’re most proud of can greatly impact your engagement and performance (it also makes these type of round-tables way more interesting)! 

Simple “Go-Do’s” for tech leaders/performers: Spend 15 minutes re-defining how you’re introducing yourself to internal + external stakeholders. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What’s a better way to articulate my role that doesn’t include my title and/or tenure? What’s the picture that I want to create for my audience? 
• How can I demonstrate that I’m specifically raising the bar and creating a supportive culture in my introduction? 
• Where is my energy as I’m presenting this new 1-minute introduction? Am I smiling? Speaking clearly and confidently? Not taking myself too seriously?

Value Add – Additional ways to show-up as a leader: With this renewed effort to be more casual in how you’re introducing yourself and your team’s impact/inspiration, now’s the perfect time to (casually) revisit your fiscal year priorities.

• What are my top 3 priorities, who’s doing the best, how am I talking about this impact?
• Where are things not going well? What’s my recovery plan + timing?
• Am I leveraging my manager and/or executive team properly? Where can they help and/or what do they need to know?

Know someone who’s looking for quick/easy ways to show-up better as a tech leader/performer? Forward them this mail or sign them up at the bottom of the Engaged Pursuit homepage.

Here’s to your Engaged Pursuit!