Hey,
​*shudders at the awkward memory* I recently went to a big event and that warm, embarrassing, familiar feeling hit me. I walked into a room full of polished folks in suits and cute dresses, wearing my leather jacket, frizzy hair and my “first impression” part of my brain whispered, “Well f*ck.”

Yes, I believe in being myself and feeling comfortable in my skin, but we all have those moments, right? That “Where do I belong?” feeling.

Here’s the truth: I still get nervous walking into traditional networking spaces—even after 15 years in business. I have to hype myself up just to walk into a room of strangers. I overthink how I tell my story when someone asks, and if it will make them write me off immediately.

I have found ways to leverage this... but more on that later.

What I really want is connection.

My partner and I talk about this all the time. It’s a top personal value. Connection doesn’t have to be big or time-consuming, it just has to be real.

Networking feels icky when it’s all small talk and surface-level. But I still show up. I usually walk out having made at least one real connection.

At this event, I made a friend after the two of us accidentally exchanged a side-eye and snort-giggle about something weird a presenter said.

This turned into two hours of she and I talking outside the main hall. *Embarassing feeling VANISHED* Later, I would find out she’s a NYT best-selling author with mutual friends. Who knew? I just liked our conversation.

My point? This feeling doesn’t spare anyone. You aren't the only one.

The truth is I love people. I’m endlessly curious about what drives them—their stories, their motivation, how they learn and see the world. I know you do too.

That’s why I’m so intentional about the events, masterminds, and gatherings I host. I aim to spark conversations people remember and inclusive questions that help them learn something new about themselves.

Also, let's be serious... every client, friend, and colleague I’ve had started with a conversation.

My realtor John? Known him for 10+ years. My amazing 1:1 clients? Connected for 3+ years (avg) before hiring me. My dog groomer? Met her 12 years ago at a local event. My podcast editor? My good friend’s son. My podcast guests? Already know me—and say yes because they trust me.

Relationships are everything.

I’ll share a podcast soon with some tips I use to get grounded when that insecure feeling shows up... so that I walk away from every experience feeling like I met someone who impacts my life in a good way.

In the meantime, my friend Selena Soo is releasing a book and I am so happy for her. I got an early copy and immediately voice memo’d her: “UMM so this is brilliant! I can’t wait to share this. Let me know how to help!”

Selena Soo, has built an incredible business and life by prioritizing connection, even as a huge introvert. And now, she's sharing her secrets in her new book, Rich Relationships: Create a Million-Dollar Network for Your Business.

She told me to offer you some really cool things... first:

25 word-for-word scripts you can use to reach out, follow up, and make people remember you [HERE]​

The first 4 chapters of the book (Like I said, I got an advanced copy and there's some serious gold in there!) [HERE]​

Plus, you’ll be entered to win $1,000 just for grabbing your free goodies

Please enjoy! Who knows, maybe we can book club this one after launch date. :)

If you read this, I bet you also have felt this way when showing up, let me know if you've ever had any networking nightmares. I would love to hear about them!

Lauren V. Davis

Personal Branding Consultant
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