3 Things People Really Look For

A while back I worked with a client who knew his stuff at work and projected confidence. However, his energy levels were always off-the-chart low. This really impacted his effectiveness and to be taken seriously.

In one session, I shared with him an idea that I now bring into my conversations quite a bit: that people typically are looking for 3 fundamental things in the individuals they interact with, and especially in those they consider hiring: Professionalism, Confidence and yes, High Energy.

Here's what I mean.

Professionalism:

This is all about whether you know your stuff. It’s about demonstrating integrity, showing that you're reliable, and that you follow through on what you say. Do you come across as competent and dependable? That’s professionalism.

High Energy:

Think enthusiasm, zest, and even a bit of grit! High energy signals willingness and motivation. It’s not about being loud or over-the-top, but it’s visible in the way you speak, your tonality, your body language. It’s that spark that shows you’re engaged and ready. I think we all know, when it's there and especially when it's missing.

Confidence:

Lastly, there's confidence. This is about showing up in a way that is self-assured. It can be subtle, from your body posture to the way you talk. For example, speaking with a firm voice that doesn't rise at the end of a sentence, but instead, lands with a sense of conviction.

I’ve noticed that when we consciously consider these three aspects, it can make a real difference in how we’re perceived. They are often the underlying factors that make someone think, "Yes, this is the person for the job," or "This is someone I want to work with."

Going back to my initial example. Once I worked with my client on projecting energy, he developed an internal 'switch' to bring himself up-to-speed...even if he did not feel like. It was a night and day difference when I saw it during our coaching.

Next time you're preparing for an important interaction, maybe take a moment to ask yourself:

- How am I conveying my professionalism?

- Have I switched on high energy?

- Am I projecting genuine confidence?

Have you noticed these elements at play in your own experiences?

Wishing you a productive week ahead!