Finding Inner Space at NextSpace

Los Angeles, CA
January 17, 2012

Finding Inner Space at NextSpace

Matt gave a Brown Bag lunch talk called “Presenting Your Work with Greater Clarity and Ease“ at NextSpace, a business that offers innovative physical and virtual infrastructure as well as collaborative community for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and creative class professionals (as they call it, “coworking” : )

A few quotes from Matt that day…

• “When you are in a conversation with a potential client, they are getting to feel what it will be like to work with you.”
• “There are tons of people doing what each of us do. What distinguishes your work is you.”
• “YOU are what is being sold in the sales conversation, not even your offerings. YOU are the real value, your presence is what matters.”
• “What else is going on in the context of your work? When you know this, you can convey it to others when you talk about what you do and what you offer.”

This was an unusual talk—at times, it felt like a support group for entrepreneurs! What I came away with was how anxiety can get in the way of connecting with potential clients. Also, how to create curiosity when talking about your work: like having a short answer, giving a morsel and backing off, then letting people ask for more. I was reminded that when I breathe, take mindful pauses, and let go of anxiety I am most well-received by others.

Sara Vainer Community Builder, NextSpace