The primary value was to show a lot of people in different companies what kind of expertise I have.  The same concept can be applied to others as well.

There’s a good chance that you won’t be working for your current employer for the rest of your life, so it’s wise to start building visibility for what you can do.  Sorry, a résumé or CV isn’t nearly as powerful as getting out there and showing people.

Of course, giving a presentation ALSO looks good on your CV, because people will expect that you’re more expert in your field when you’re able to go outside your current company.

I understand that a lot of people are terrified at the idea of giving presentations.  So even though it can be quite powerful, perhaps it’s not quite within your grasp yet.  Look into other opportunities:

• Writing an article for an industry journal
• Becoming a member of a small cross-company mastermind group
• Mentoring others
• Writing a book
• Leading a discussion group at your church or kids’ school

It’s really only limited by your imagination.

I’m going to be presenting for an Entrepreneurship class at the local University – just an hour talking about my experience in setting up businesses, successful or not, and leading a discussion with the students.  It’s a chance to contribute to the community and build my presence in general.  Is it likely to bring in coaching clients for me?  Not especially – although it certainly can’t hurt.

You have expertise that most others don’t.  How can you start showing others outside your current employer how useful that might be?

P.S. If you’re interested in my presentation I gave last week on employee retention in the software industry, go check out my other blog.

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