Be the most embarrassing one in the room

Every year we onboard a new Fellow at my office. This person is tasked with working with 20-30 of our highest-performing student leaders. I task the Fellow with one responsibility at all the student gatherings:

Nothing breaks down people’s walls quite like knowing they won’t be singled out. When you immediately own the 'embarrassing' title, you are beginning to create a psychologically safe space for others. People will feel comfortable speaking and being themselves.

Actionable steps for you:

• Always be the first person to ask a question during any event’s Q&A portion

  • Especially if it’s a ‘dumb’ question as others are thinking it too

• Go up to people who are alone at an event and introduce yourself. Everyone knows they have to be ‘networking’ and they will appreciate you doing the hard part.