Hi there, it’s Jill!
I once spoke with an experienced executive about the single biggest factor that contributes to long-term career success.
Given his years of coaching and mentoring countless professionals, I expected him to say things like: diligence, intelligence, or leadership skills, etc.
To my surprise, his answer was far simpler: “Show up.”
Today, let’s talk about why showing up is so powerful, what hidden benefits it brings, and for my fellow introverts — how to make it more comfortable to put yourself out there without draining your energy.
Let’s dive in!
01
What Does “Showing Up” Really Mean?
Showing up can take many forms:
Physically — attending team lunches, town halls, industry conferences, fundraising events, or even informal coffee chats.
Digitally — posting on LinkedIn, engaging with others’ content, joining webinars, or contributing in online forums.
No matter the format, showing up requires a deliberate investment of your time and energy. So why is it worth it, beyond the obvious networking perks?
02
The Hidden Benefits of Showing Up
Some benefits are clear: the more people see and interact with you, the more they understand who you are and what you do. One short conversation can spark a connection that turns into a friendship, collaboration, or career opportunity down the line.
But there are also deeper, less obvious advantages:
You put availability bias on your side.
In psychology, availability bias means people are more likely to remember those they encounter often. When you show up regularly—whether in person or online—you naturally stay on people’s radar.
That familiarity pays off when opportunities arise:
“Oh, I know Alex! We had a great chat at the last conference. Let’s see if they’d be interested in this project.”
You create shared memories.
Career satisfaction isn’t just about the work—it’s also about the moments along the way. Attending events builds a shared history with colleagues and peers: the laughter over a team dinner, the inspiration from a speaker, the camaraderie of working toward a cause.
These moments deepen trust, foster a sense of belonging, and contribute to your overall well-being.
You reignite your own energy.
For some, social events feel exhausting. But research shows that employees who participate in gatherings often feel more productive afterward. Stepping away from your daily routine can help you reconnect with why you started in your profession in the first place.
Maybe a seminar introduces you to a cutting-edge idea in your field. Maybe a casual chat reminds you of your strengths. Either way, showing up can boost both your motivation and creativity.
03
For Fellow Introverts — Showing Up Without Burning Out
As an introvert myself, I know it takes courage to attend social events. Here are a few ways to make it easier and more rewarding:
1. Bring a friend.
Having a “social anchor” can make any event feel less intimidating. You can mingle separately, but always regroup when you need a breather.
2. Research ahead of time.
Check the agenda, keynote speakers, or discussion topics. Knowing what excites you about the event can outweigh the discomfort of going.
3. Focus on quality over quantity.
You don’t need to meet everyone to make an event worthwhile. Aim for one or two meaningful conversations with people you’re genuinely interested in.
When I’ve represented my company at campus recruiting events, the students who stood out weren’t the loudest—they were the ones who asked thoughtful, specific questions and maintained genuine eye contact. Authentic curiosity leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
Showing up isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being present. Every time you show up, you plant seeds of relationships, of opportunities, and of personal growth.
You may not always feel like going. And yes, it takes effort. But more often than not, you’ll leave with something valuable—whether it’s a new contact, a fresh idea, or simply a reminder of why you do what you do.
So next time you’re debating whether to attend that meeting, event, or webinar, remember: your future self might thank you for showing up today.
— Jill
Founder of Anchor Growth Newsletter
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