OK, you’re doing this whole presentation. Don’t f*ck it up.

I’ve always identified as an introvert 🤫, and the idea of speaking to clients used to be anxiety-inducing. In my early days as a junior designer, I just wanted to stay in my corner, focus on my work, and let others handle client interactions.

But honestly, you can’t grow as a creative person in the business world without truly engaging with your client.

Despite my reluctance, when I started at Mike Nethercott’s small marketing firm, “deecipher,” he consistently included me in client meetings, a move I really didn’t appreciate at the time. 🙄 I struggled to speak up, finding it hard to respond when put on the spot.

Many around us, including some senior team members, really didn’t think it was good for me to be in the room. I remember some affirming I might be better off working behind the scenes. But Mike saw something in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself and kept including me. He even started assigning me small roles in these meetings, gradually increasing my involvement over time. 🌱

The anxiety and dread before each meeting were palpable, but Mike’s persistent belief in my potential paid off. 🌟 I remember the day he casually mentioned in an elevator up to a client meeting that I would be doing the entire presentation:

“OK, you’re doing this whole presentation. Don’t f*ck it up.” 😳

Some may say it was unfair of him, but I managed to get through it, marking a turning point in my professional journey. 🛤️

Mike’s approach taught me two important lessons:

1. Sometimes, a good push into the deep end is what we need to learn how to swim 🏊‍♂️. Believing in someone and giving them a shot at something you know they can handle can be a real game-changer.
2. Good design isn’t just about aesthetics or design pedantries; it’s about really understanding what the client needs and why. It’s about building trust with them–something you can only do if you talk to them. 🤝

Today, I can confidently say that I enjoy interacting with clients. While a slight nervousness remains, I truly enjoy working with clients to help them achieve their goals, building trust with them and ensuring everyone feels great about a project we’re working together on. 😊

Thanks for believing in me, Nethercott, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without what I learned from you. (hashtag#makeshiftb2bpoet) 🙏

To all the introverts who might doubt their ability to thrive in client-facing roles: remember, our quiet reflections and deep insights can transform into our greatest strengths, especially when guided by supportive mentors who see the potential in our unique perspectives. 💪

If anyone needs a good push, I’m here to #payitforward !

#mentorshipmatters #clients #presentationskills #support #learningopportunities