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Marthe, 30 years old, asks: »I recently took up a position in a corporation as Manager Employee Engagement. Soon I will be leading a global team professionally as part of a project. In my private life, I often get the feedback that I look younger. In almost all conversations with new colleagues or external people, I am asked whether I am a trainee or doing an internship. That bothers me because I don't seem to be perceived according to my position. How can I ensure that I am perceived differently? Please do not refer to clothing. I'll do my best there.«
Dear Marthe,
Leading a global team at the age of 30 doesn't sound like the work of an intern or a trainee, but simply very successful.
Think about what got you there: your good education, your knowledge, your expertise and your great commitment.
Apparently, despite your young looks.
Understand why you are where you are and why you have been chosen to lead this project.
Take the knowledge into your inner attitude and carry it more offensively to the outside.
Assert »look young« positively and give the description a new appearance.
Looking young means: fresh, full of energy and drive, enthusiastic, up-to-date education, ready to innovate... Focus on the benefits and play them!
This is how the sovereign appearance succeeds
A strong and confident appearance is part of your strengthened inner attitude.
You can increase your status by making a few small changes where you feel you need to.
In situations where you might be perceived as the young "beginner," adopt high status right from the start:
Assume an upright posture.
Move slowly and firmly.
Use calm
hand and arm movements.
Smile sparingly.
Maintain eye contact when speaking, less when listening.
Speak loudly and slowly.
The voice will automatically deepen.
That strengthens your position.
Watch your language
You can also do a lot linguistically to be perceived according to your position.
Bring structure to your posts: mention concerns, topics, goal and time.
use enumerations.
Use short sentences and get to the point quickly.
Position your answers clearly: "Yes." - "No."
Support arguments with facts.
Use the indicative (is, will, can), not the subjunctive (could, could, would).
Do not use plasticizers such as "actually", "maybe", "under certain circumstances", "possibly".
Practice your elevator pitch
Encourage any attributions at first contact by getting your position across quickly, clearly, and unequivocally.
Prepare an “elevator pitch” that will convince you within about 60 seconds, roughly the length of an elevator ride.
The following structure can help you to prepare this pitch:
Who am I?
What am I doing?
Why me?
(My expertise, my experiences, what sets me apart?)
What is my motivation?
(People like people who have a purpose, who work with passion. Why am I doing this job?)
what is my offer
(Ask yourself: What problems does the other person face and how can I help them?)
My appeal: What should my counterpart do now?
A few tips for formulating your elevator pitch:
Start with "I am..." (not "my name is...").
Say your name slowly and clearly.
This gives you more weight.
Use strong words to show that you matter.
For example: "I am responsible for...";
"I lead …";
"My expertise..."
Name previous experience, references and companies from all professional stations.
Be bold instead of making a mess.
Make yourself big and contribute the experiences of your CV without mentioning your status at the time, such as an intern.
If they were well-known companies, name them.
»I have already gained experience in... at....« – »In the company... I have expanded my expertise in....«
Video conferencing tips
The following also applies to virtual contacts:
Choose a neutral background.
Invest in a professional profile picture.
Take up space in front of the camera.
Prop up your hands.
Feel free to stand in a meeting.
Use gestures sparingly.
Get feedback
To check the effectiveness of your appearance, get specific feedback from trusted colleagues.
Should you nevertheless ask someone whether you are a trainee or an intern, do not respond to the question with an explanation, but ask back: "How did you get that?" or "What makes you assume that?".
When the answer comes: "You look so young", ask further: "What gives the impression?" Or reply: "Yes, great, isn't it?" Because that's it, dear Marthe!
You will grow older all by yourself.
I wish you much success!
