The Art of Talking About Yourself

Last weekend I went to a meetup for Portland Bloggers.  Besides having free headshots taken by professional photographers, I also had the opportunity to meet other bloggers in the area.

I’m pleased to say that in the three hours of mingling with a room full of strangers I only had two brief panic attacks.  The shortness of breath passed quickly.  I introduced myself to people and told them about my blog with what I hope is mild awkwardness.

Talking about yourself is not easy.  My partner and I practiced on each other on the way to the event, and the whole time I was thinking, “Christ, what have I gotten myself into?”

He gave me great advice, which was to ask people about their blog and what they did.  People like talking about themselves, and that is an effective icebreaker.  It took pressure off me and allowed me to relax when they asked me questions.

I went in with the mindset that I had nothing to lose.  My only goal was to practice talking about my blog and my book, which became easier after the first few attempts.

I found the other bloggers to be friendly and open as well.  They are there for the same reason I was, which made them very approachable.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been published, people’s ears perk up when you tell them you’re a writer.  As bloggers they appreciate the dedication and effort it takes to write.

The most important thing I took away from this is that I need to start seeing myself as professional writer in order for others to see me that way as well.  It doesn’t take much for them to have that perspective of you, either.  You simply have to do it.